How can a person teach him/herself to stop coughing?

[epkoch]

My Mom has mild/medium COPD.  As a result she is very prone to bronchitis, which in turn ushers in long periods of painful and scary coughing.  Often, she cannot breathe during a coughing fit.  She takes the prescribed medicines (Codeine, Albuterol, etc.), but still has frequent coughing episodes. Many years ago, she knew a physician on your staff who taught patients how to sit down, breathe,etc. in a way that would stop or prevent a violent coughing episode.  She no longer knows that person's name.  Do you know of any such behavioral techniqus to help with this -- both before and during a coughing episode?  Thanks!

[scottcros]

I have always been told not to be afraid to cough.  I have COPD and have to cough hard sometimes to get it up.  During those times I can lose my breathe and get dizzy, but it's always best to get it up and out than try to suppress a cough.
I know nothing about "teaching yourself not to cough" but it just doesn't sound healthy.

[National Jewish Health]

At the speech-language service at National Jewish Health® we are very familiar with – and treat – many cases of chronic cough similar to what you have described.  We would need to determine if your Mom needs a simple review of a technique learned here in the past or if her cough requires intervention.  This can be done by contacting LUNG LUNG® at 1 (800) 222 LUNG (5864) Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM mountain time.