What is psychological cough

Psychological cough is a non organic disease caused by psychological factors, mainly manifested as recurrent coughing without a clear physiological cause, usually triggered by emotional tension, anxiety, or psychological pressure. Psychological cough can be relieved through psychological counseling, behavioral intervention, medication treatment, and other methods. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and undergo comprehensive intervention under the guidance of a doctor.

1. Psychological Counseling

Psychological counseling is a fundamental method for alleviating psychological cough, which helps patients identify and adjust negative emotions that trigger coughing through cognitive-behavioral therapy. Patients may experience anxiety due to academic pressure, interpersonal conflicts, etc., manifested as unconscious dry cough. Professional psychologists will use relaxation training, mindfulness therapy, and other methods to reduce the conditioned reflex of coughing. For pediatric patients, parents need to cooperate with doctors to establish a stable family support system.

2. Behavioral Intervention

Habit reversal training is the core means of behavioral intervention, which reduces cough frequency through consciousness monitoring and alternative behavior. When patients experience coughing impulses, they can be guided to take deep breaths or swallow instead. Keeping a cough diary can help identify triggering scenarios, such as before an exam or when symptoms worsen due to emotional excitement. Parents of pediatric patients should avoid excessive attention to coughing behavior and prevent reinforcing psychological cues.

3. Medication therapy

For patients with severe symptoms, medication that regulates neurological function can be used according to medical advice. The new film of Deli can improve anxiety, paroxetine tablets are suitable for patients with accompanying depression, and alprazolam tablets can provide short-term relief for acute attacks. Drug therapy should be combined with psychological therapy to avoid the formation of drug dependence. Children's medication should strictly follow the guidance of pediatricians and adult doses are prohibited.

4. environmental adjustment

Reducing irritating environmental factors can lower the probability of cough triggering. Maintain a humidity level of 40% -60% in the living environment and avoid physical stimuli such as cold air and dust. Establishing a regular sleep schedule and ensuring adequate sleep can help stabilize autonomic nervous system function. Parents should create a relaxed learning atmosphere for their children and avoid applying excessive academic pressure.

5. Respiratory training

Abdominal breathing training can effectively block the cough reflex arc. Perform 10-15 minutes of slow deep breathing exercises daily, with a focus on training exhalation extension techniques. Yoga or meditation can enhance respiratory control and reduce muscle tension in the throat. Children can train their breathing rhythm through games such as blowing bubbles and balloons, and parents need to accompany and supervise the training effect. Patients with psychological cough should maintain moderate exercise such as walking, swimming, and other aerobic activities, 3-5 times a week, for less than 30 minutes each time, which can help alleviate anxiety. Avoid spicy and stimulating foods in diet, and supplement whole grains and green leafy vegetables rich in vitamin B in moderation. Establish a stable social support network and regularly communicate with family and friends to vent stress. If coughing persists for more than one month or affects daily life, it is necessary to seek medical attention promptly at a psychological or respiratory department, and carry out targeted psychological intervention after ruling out organic diseases.