Psychogenic Cough in Children: A Literature Review

Biofeedback and Cognitive Coping in the Treatment of Pediatric Habit Cough

“…Similar to our study several case reports used differential reinforcement of other or incompatible responses in which family members provided different types of positive reinforcement for non-coughing behaviors (Pierce & Watson, 1998). In contrast Bye (2000) reported using a peak flow meter for positive feedback in reducing what he diagnosed as a psychogenic cough.…”

“…A review of the pediatric habit cough research literature indicates that there are only single-case reports and one group report published on treatment (Bye, 2000;Elkund, 2001;Niggemann, 2002;Pierce & Watson, 1998). We were not able to find any published studies on treatment of habit cough using controlled group or even multiple-baseline designs.…”

“…The coughing interferes with the child's functioning, particularly at school and also disturbs and negatively affects those who hear the cough. Although habit cough is thought to be a relatively rare problem there is some research evidence that it is under diagnosed (Pierce & Watson, 1998).…”

The Relationship Between Chronic Cough and Paradoxical Vocal Fold Movement: A Review of the Literature

“…Also, no empirical evidence links psychogenic cough with underlying psychic conflict or with more serious psychopathology. 21 Although psychological issues may coexist with CC, the nature of causality in this relationship has not been confirmed and the coexistence of psychological issues should not be over-interpreted as being causal. CC may lead to or exacerbate psychological symptoms and have negative emotional side effects.…”

“…Furthermore, one criterion for diagnosing psychogenic cough is the cessation of the cough when the patient is sleeping. 21 However, absence of nocturnal cough is common in cough resulting from other origins. Finally, in many studies, the cases of ''psychogenic cough'' were not compared with a healthy control group.…”