Physiopathologie et traitement de la toux : approche étiologique [Physiopathology and treatment of cough: an etiological approach]

Chronic cough is a common symptom in the consultation of any general practitioner. It may be idiopathic or reflect a chronic disease. However, cough can become excessive, occurring in response to stimuli that do not usually cause this symptom. This entity is called Cough hypersensitivity syndrome (CHS). Its treatment involves the use of neuromodulator substances that specifically target this hypersensitivity, while maintaining intact the cough reflex, essential for protecting the airways. This review aims to present the current knowledge about the pathophysiology of chronic cough, the initial diagnostic approach that this symptom requires and cough treatments either available or in development