Understanding the foundations of chronic cough

Area of Science:

• Pulmonology
• Internal Medicine

Background:

• Chronic cough is a frequent reason for primary care and specialty physician visits.
• Diagnosis and treatment of chronic cough remain challenging for clinicians.
• Common etiologies include upper airway cough syndrome, asthma, and gastroesophageal reflux disease.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the definitions, epidemiology, and pathophysiology of chronic cough.
• To highlight the role of cough hypersensitivity syndrome in chronic cough.
• To discuss the healthcare and socioeconomic burden associated with chronic cough.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of existing research on chronic cough.
• Analysis of diagnostic challenges and treatment strategies.
• Examination of the emerging concept of cough hypersensitivity syndrome.

Main Results:

• Chronic cough presents significant diagnostic and therapeutic difficulties.
• Cough hypersensitivity syndrome is an emerging concept potentially unifying various chronic cough etiologies.
• The condition imposes a considerable healthcare and socioeconomic burden.

Conclusions:

• A comprehensive understanding of chronic cough's multifaceted nature is essential for effective management.
• Cough hypersensitivity syndrome offers a new perspective for understanding and potentially treating chronic cough.
• Addressing the burden of chronic cough requires improved diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.