Development of a Comprehensive Cough Therapy Program (CCTP) for chronic cough in India: a qualitative study

Area of Science:

• Speech-language pathology
• Behavioral therapy
• Chronic cough management

Background:

• Chronic cough (CC) is an emerging area in speech-language pathology.
• Behavioral treatments for CC are gaining recognition.
• Allied health professionals (AHPs) are involved in CC management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To devise a comprehensive behavioral therapy program for chronic cough (CC).
• To involve allied health professionals (AHPs) in the development of the CC management program.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative methodology using semi-structured interviews with medical professionals, AHPs, and yoga practitioners.
• Constant comparative framework for participant recruitment until data saturation.
• Analysis of interview transcripts and a post-interview survey for consensus-based module finalization.

Main Results:

• A behavioral treatment module, the 'Comprehensive Cough Therapy Program (CCTP)', was developed.
• The CCTP includes four components: patient education, breathing exercises, laryngeal hydration, and cough control strategies.
• The module integrates professional practice patterns and existing literature.

Conclusions:

• The developed behavioral treatment module, CCTP, can be a potential management option for chronic cough.
• This approach aligns with global guidelines for CC management.