Understanding Chronic Cough and Laryngeal HypersensitivityBody:
Overview:
This post introduces chronic cough, explains laryngeal hypersensitivity, and discusses why some people develop a cough that just won’t go away, even when there's no clear medical cause.
Blog Content:
Title: When a Cough Won’t Quit: Understanding Chronic Cough and Laryngeal Hypersensitivity
Body:
Have you or someone you know dealt with a cough that lingers for weeks—or even months—without explanation? It might not be allergies or a cold. In many cases, it’s something deeper: chronic cough due to laryngeal hypersensitivity.
What Is Chronic Cough?
A chronic cough is typically defined as a cough lasting more than 8 weeks in adults. It often begins after a respiratory illness, but in some cases, it never fully resolves—even when lungs are clear, asthma is ruled out, and reflux is controlled.
Enter Laryngeal Hypersensitivity
Our larynx, or voice box, has protective reflexes meant to keep us safe—like the cough reflex. But sometimes, that reflex becomes overactive. The larynx starts to misinterpret harmless stimuli (like cold air, talking, or even laughing) as threats. This leads to frequent, uncontrollable coughing.
This hypersensitivity can be triggered by:
Viral illnesses
Allergies
Acid reflux
Environmental irritants
Vocal overuse or strain
What makes it worse? The more you cough, the more sensitive your larynx becomes—creating a self-perpetuating cycle.
How SLPs Can Help
Speech-language pathologists trained in voice and airway disorders can assess and treat chronic cough using behavioral interventions that work with—not against—your body’s reflexes. We use techniques like:
Cough suppression strategies
Breathing coordination
Laryngeal desensitization
Vocal hygiene education
You don’t have to live with that persistent tickle in your throat. Relief is possible—with the right support.
