Nonpharmacological Approaches to Chronic Cough

Although cough is a protective reflex, it can occur in the absence of any physical need to clear the airway. In chronic cough, cough can be triggered by innocuous stimuli and persist despite medical treatment. Nonpharmacological interventions such as cough control therapy, provided by speech pathologists, have gained popularity in recent years. Intervention targets refractory or unexplained chronic cough, and efficacy has been studied in randomized controlled trials. Key elements of cough control therapy include education, anticipation, and control of the urge to cough, reducing laryngeal irritation and psychoeducational counseling. Our understanding of the mechanisms behind the success of nonpharmacological treatment is developing. It is likely the mechanisms of action are multifactorial across peripheral, central, and higher cortical regions. Nonpharmacological cough control therapy interventions are now included in international cough guidelines. However, approach to service delivery is not standardized and varies between regions and countries.