NYMC Faculty Publications

Oto-tricho-tussia: An Unexpected Cause of Cough

Journal Title

Case Reports in Otolaryngology

First Page

3527481

Last Page

3527481

Document Type

Case Report

Publication Date

3-31-2020

Department

Otolaryngology

Abstract

Chronic cough is a frequently encountered condition with multiple etiologies. In patients with neurogenic chronic cough, peripheral laryngopharyngeal hypersensitivity of the vagus nerve stimulates the cough reflex. We present three cases of "Oto-tricho-tussia," describing hair within the ear canal stimulating Arnold's branch of the vagus nerve and triggering the urge-to-cough. All three patients experienced significant improvement or complete resolution of their cough symptoms after removal of the hair resting on their tympanic membrane and external auditory canal. We encourage ear canal examination and promotion of proper ear cleaning habits as this is an easily treatable consideration for the cause of chronic cough.

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