What is Chronic Cough?
Chronic cough — defined as a cough lasting more than eight weeks — is one of the most frustrating and disruptive conditions a patient can face. While it has many potential causes, including reflux, allergies, sinus problems, and asthma, the larynx is increasingly recognized as a central player. In many patients, an overly sensitive larynx — a condition sometimes referred to as laryngeal hypersensitivity — becomes the common pathway through which cough and throat symptoms are amplified and perpetuated, even after other causes have been addressed.
Patients with laryngeal hypersensitivity often experience not just chronic cough, but a broader constellation of throat symptoms including persistent throat clearing, a tickling or irritating sensation in the throat, and a feeling of something stuck — all of which can significantly affect quality of life.
Common Symptoms
- A persistent dry or tickling cough lasting weeks or months
- Chronic throat clearing
- A sensation of irritation, tightening, or something stuck in the throat
- Cough triggered by talking, laughing, eating, or changes in air temperature
- Symptoms that have not responded to reflux medications or allergy treatment
Diagnosis & Treatment
As a laryngologist, Dr. Benjamin Rafii is uniquely positioned to evaluate chronic cough from both a structural and functional perspective. Evaluation includes a thorough cough history, flexible laryngoscopy, and when appropriate, coordination with pulmonology, gastroenterology, or allergy specialists to ensure no contributing cause is overlooked.
Treatment is tailored to the underlying cause and may include cough suppression therapy with a specialized voice therapist, neuromodulator medications to quiet an overactive laryngeal nerve, or for refractory cases, superior laryngeal nerve block or vocal cord Botox — advanced interventions that require laryngologic expertise.
Related Conditions: Silent Reflux / LPR | Muscle Tension Dysphonia | Airway & Breathing Disorders
Related Treatments: Superior Laryngeal Nerve Block | Voice Therapy & Care Team Coordination
Related Services: Comprehensive Voice Evaluation
If you have been struggling with a chronic cough that hasn’t responded to treatment, Dr. Rafii and his team are here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation at The Laryngology & Voice Center of Beverly Hills — same- and next-day appointments are available.