Chronic cough is one of the most common reasons for seeking treatment from an ear, nose and throat physician. Millions of dollars are spent on tests and medications, both prescription and over the counter drugs, to try and stop coughing. A chronic cough is one that lasts two months or more and that is resistant to traditional treatments. Patients come into the office with complaints of continuous coughing, visits to many physicians, trials with many types of medications and often no change in the symptoms. There are many causes for chronic cough. A thorough diagnostic evaluation may uncover reasons for the cough and a method for treating it.

The diagnostic visit includes a thorough ear, nose and throat examination. Visualization of the vocal folds often reveals information leading to treatment. A vast majority of people cough because they are experiencing laryngeal reflux and a condition called paradoxical vocal fold motion disease. Laryngeal reflux is usually accompanied by hoarseness, daytime cough, a sensation of fullness in the throat and some difficulty swallowing. Paradoxical vocal fold motion is a movement disorder of the larynx in which the vocal folds partially close while breathing instead of remaining open. This condition can lead to air hunger, shortness of breath or choking.

The Voice & Swallowing Center has extensive experience with the diagnosis and treatment of chronic cough. Dr. Murry has published reports of patients recovering from chronic cough that has lasted for many years. Dr Aviv is experienced in the medical treatment of chronic cough. The treatment usually involves a combination of medication and behavioral management. The medical regimen is tailored to the patient's specific problems. The behavioral management consists of a series of exercises called Respiratory Retraining. These exercises, which may take place over a period of 4 to 9 weeks, focus on reducing the irregular breathing pattern associated with cough. Most patients achieve success. Relief from chronic cough provides a significant improvement in a person's quality of life and allows them to go about their daily routine with improved breathing, voice quality and without the strain of coughing throughout the day.