FAQs

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?

There are many causes of cough in a non-smoking, otherwise healthy person. Some of the causes of cough may be silent. A silent cause is one where cough is the only symptom. These causes must be properly diagnosed in order to be effectively treated. This comprehensive approach offers patients prompt and long lasting relief. The most common causes of cough are:

• Asthma
• Postnasal drip
• Gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor
  
  

3. Who gets chronic cough?

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

4. Why Center For Cough?

Center For Cough is the only dedicated center for diagnosing and treating chronic cough in the Southeast region of the United States. Center For Cough customizes a diagnostic approach and treatment plan specific to each patient's cause(s) of cough. Rather than treating cough as the problem, Center for Cough treats cough as a symptom of often two or more underlying problems. Some of the causes of cough may be silent. A silent cause is one where cough is the only symptom. These causes must be properly diagnosed in order to be effectively treated. This comprehensive approach offers patients prompt and long lasting relief.

5. How will you determine why I'm coughing?

During an initial evaluation, Dr. Sher will review your medical history and conduct a clinical assessment based on a physical examination and diagnostic tests. In most cases, all diagnostic tests can be completed 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 causes of cough that have not been properly diagnosed and treated. Center For Cough's comprehensive diagnostic approach identifies all causes and recommends a treatment plan targeted at those causes. 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 personalized treatment plan.

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:

• Medication
• Diet changes
• Lifestyle changes
• Environmental controls
• 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.