Chronic cough
Chronic cough
Chronic cough is a common and debilitating symptom that can have a significant impact on a person's
quality of life. It is defined as a cough lasting for eight weeks or more, and it can be caused by a variety
of underlying conditions. In recent years, there have been significant advancements in our
understanding of chronic cough, leading to new insights and future prospects for its diagnosis and
management.
Chronic cough is often triggered by low levels of thermal, mechanical or chemical exposure,
reflecting a common etiology, known as cough hypersensitivity syndrome (CHS). CHS is
characterized by dysregulation of neural pathways and receptors in the central nervous system,
vagal afferent sensory nerves, and ganglia.
Misdiagnosis of the underlying cause of the cough also adds to patient burden since patients
are unnecessarily exposed to inappropriate investigations or ineffective treatments. A number
of conditions, including irritable bowel syndrome, obstructive sleep apnoea ,obesity , thyroid
disease, neuropathic syndromes , GORD, asthma and allergic rhinitis, are common in patients
with chronic cough, contributing to the disease burden.
New Diagnostic Tools- Advances in diagnostic tools, such as cough monitoring devices and
ambulatory cough recorders, have enabled more accurate and objective assessments of chronic
cough. These tools help healthcare professionals better understand the frequency and triggers
of cough episodes, aiding in diagnosis and treatment planning.
A high prevalence of psychological effects is associated with chronic cough.
In summary, chronic cough is a multifaceted condition with diverse underlying causes and complex
mechanisms. Advances in research are shedding light on its pathophysiology, allowing for more accurate
diagnosis and innovative treatment approaches. As research in this field continues to evolve, new
insights and treatments will likely continue to emerge.
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