Journal of adolescent health care : official publication of the Society for Adolescent Medicine
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Two cases of severe dyspnea and stridor with upper airway obstruction of obscure origin are discussed. Complete medical evaluation could identify no organic cause for the symptoms, and functional upper airway obstruction was diagnosed. ⋯ Flow-volume loops may show a lower inspiratory vital capacity than expiratory vital capacity and a discrepancy between inspiratory flow limitation and airway resistance. It is important to establish a functional etiology to prevent unnecessary treatment and provide proper care.