1.Am I a candidate for Center for Cough?

If you are a non-smoker with normal chest x-rays who has a cough that is lasting for more than eight weeks, then you are a candidate for Center for Cough.

2.Why am I coughing?

Cough reflex hypersensitivity is most often the cause of cough. Cough reflex hypersensitivity has neurogenic, inflammatory, and behavioral components. There are many triggers that heighten the sensitivity of the cough reflex such as Asthma, Post nasal drip, Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and/or Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. Some of the triggers of cough may be silent. A silent trigger is one where cough is the only symptom. Accurately diagnosing the unique cause and triggers of cough in each patient is critical to effective treatment.

3.Who has chronic cough?

Chronic cough affects men, women, and children. There is a measurable, heightened cough reflex sensitivity in women, often caused by allergic triggers, infections, irritants, and reflexive pathways such as stimulation of the esophagus.

4.Why Choose Center for Cough?

Patients choose Center for Cough for its demonstrated track record of success: 7 out of 10 patients report cough resolution or life improvement, often after the initial visit. Center for Cough develops and works with the cougher to execute an individualized treatment plan aimed at each person’s unique cough profile. A rapid fire, rather than sequential trial and error approach, results in prompt relief. An ongoing partnership between the cougher and Center for Cough results in sustainable success. Center for Cough is the only dedicated center for diagnosing and treating chronic cough in the Southeast region of the United States, and one of a few in the nation.

5.How will Center for Cough determine why I’m coughing?

During an initial consultation, Dr. Sher will review your symptoms, medical history, and conduct a physical examination. In some cases, additional diagnostic tests will be recommended and can be performed at Center for Cough during the initial visit.

6.If I’ve been coughing for months or even years, can Center for Cough help improve or resolve my cough?

Yes. In most non-smokers with normal chest x-rays, there are underlying triggers of cough that have not been properly diagnosed and treated. Center for Cough’s comprehensive diagnostic approach identifies causes and the triggers of cough and recommends an individualized treatment plan targeted at those causes and triggers. Many Center for Cough patients arrive feeling hopeless and believing their cough will never improve or go away. Their lives are transformed through Center for Cough’s diagnostic approach and effective treatment.

7.What will be my treatment?

Every treatment plan is personalized to effectively target the cause(s) of cough. All treatment options are easily integrated into daily life and will not result in missed work, school or other limitations. Treatment options may include:

• Over the counter and/or prescription medications
• Diet
• Lifestyle
• Environment
• Voice exercises

8.If I’m coming in from out-of-town how long will I have to stay in
your area?

Generally, an initial evaluation at Center for Cough is conclusive and can be completed all in one visit lasting several hours. You will leave the appointment with a treatment plan that can be easily implemented in your home community. Center for Cough is conveniently located to Tampa International Airport and all major highways. If an overnight stay is necessary, Center for Cough will be happy to assist you with lodging, dining, and activity choices in the area.