vagus nerve/chronic cough HELP

[JBjork]

PLEASE HELP

My wife has had a chronic cough for seven years.  The cough started when she had pneumonia and then never stopped after the pneumonia was cleared.  She has been seeing an expert/cough specialist without much success.  There are some peculiarities to her cough which I believe offer a clue as to the cause; however, the specialist does not seem interested in pursuing the matter.  My wife has had multiple airway tests, swallowing tests, allergy tests etc.  It does not seem that the cough is related to a physiological lung/airway condition.

*The cough stops when pressure is applied to the abdomen (just below the rib cage/ just off the centerline).  I once made a contraption with a tennis ball and ace bandages which placed pressure on this abdominal area.  The cough stopped completely.
*The cough is managed with use of chlorpromazine.  The side effects are obviously a concern.  
*The cough stops when she lies down.

I have done a fair amount of research and believe that the cough is caused by a neurological condition.  Could the Vagus nerve be the culprit?  Could something be irritating the Vagus nerve and the act of putting pressure on the abdomen provides relief to the nerve?  Could this be as simple as a hernia?  

[Kjetil4455]

I have cured this several times at my clinic.

You need to know where the vagus nerve can be compressed, to address it. It can be compressed by the C1 transverse process if the C1 glides anteriorly (common with neck injuries). If the TVP is anterior to the mastoid process, it may very well be anteriorly displaced and compressing the vagus nerve. Often together with migraines and other vascular problems.

It can be compressed between the anterior scalene and SCM clavicular head (very common). Significant strengthening of these structures will be required (gets worse before it gets better).

It can be compressed within the diapraghm. Would need manual release and breathing work to fix it. I'd say that vagal compression within the diapraghm is not a likely cause of chronic cough, such as scm/scalene compression, but with nerve pain you never know until you've tried. It can spread and refer in weird ways.

Best of luck.

[Mebriggs57]

I have had a chronic cough since my car accident in 1986 from the seat belt injury. Developed hiatal hernia from a lifting job. Now chronic cough. When I inhale I feel sensitivity right at the spot of hiatal/vagus effected area. When I eat it gets worse.

[Dmstew]

Greetings all.  I am right in there with all of you.  For 18 years I have this cough that has disrupted my life. I have had all the tests everyone talks about and even treated for asthma for 10 years .  The cough starts after I get a virus and can last for several months.  I have been given antibiotics you name it.  All unnecessary if only someone had taken the time to listen to me. Even been told recently I may need a referral to a psychiatrist.  So just recently diagnosed with Arnold Cough by a very estitute doctor.  I am just thankful to give a name to this condition that is overlooked by the medical world.  It is rare as only 15 cases have been reported as of 2004. But I know there are many more who are undiagnosed. I am trying the gabapentin working up to 1800 mg daily. Not there yet as you have to work up slowly.  In addition I am working with my Accupuncturist who feels that she can address this matter.  So stayed tuned and it is my goal to bring this legitimite medical condition to the forefront so more people like us can bet treatment soon and not have to suffer and wait years to get relief.

[Jana_L]

Most of the symptoms here sound exactly like vagul neuropathy.  It can be triggered by a viral infection, and by certain medications.  A remedy that will help many with this condition:  a Methylcobalamin and Benfotiamine regimen.  The Methylco must be high dose, at least 5000 mcg / day.   Benfo, at bare minimum 500 mg / day.  It can take 3 to 6 weeks, but this combination taken faithfully every single day absolutely WILL HEAL this condition in some if not many ppl.  I have seen the proof.   No downside to taking these;  nothing to lose, really.

[nemonomore]

I had a bad cough off and on for ten years.  After multiple tests, many doctors, and lots of research on my own, came across a small article about the vagus nerve being inflamed after a virus.  Talked my doctor into trying the remedy and It Worked!    Took tramadol (a pain medication) twice a day for three days as a loading dose and then once a day for two weeks.  Completely stopped the coughing on day two and it hasn't come back in over a year.  Thank you Jesus !!

[Pat_Taylor]

Did you ever have the Shingles vaccine?  Just curious.?

Pat Taylor

[littleone229]

I am 43 years old and have been suffering with this cough, gagging, occasionally vomiting problem for about 9 years.  Seems to be getting worse and I can't stand it any more.  It's embarrassing to be out with friends enjoying a meal and then have something trigger a coughing spell.   I too notice that crumb type foods make the symptoms worse, crackers, cookies and popcorn can all trigger a coughing/gagging jab.  I've had endoscopies done, dilation of the esophagus and tried acid reflux medication all with no relief or answers.  I've noticed in the past 2 weeks that the cough is getting worse and I'm experiencing mucous as well as vomiting more frequently.  I'm so happy to have found this forum and hope we can help one another find answers.  

[tegz742]

I did a better search and found Carbetapentane easily enough!
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pentoxyverine

[tegz742]

Are you sure about that name- two posts up 'Gabapentin'  is mentioned -which could be the one!  Good luck. I may give it a try too...

[tegz742]

I have the same' right ear' cough inducing syndrome.
Very solid reaction and NOT by using the left ear ever.
I have assumed this to be nerve related too, but since a [toxic?] dust exposure last year have suffered recurrent throat sensitivity and cough which leaves my head spinning.
I'm waiting for an ENT appt- but not hopeful as many similar stories here about lack of response.
Have already tried anithistamines, inhaler & strong antacid med that does alter frequency so reflux related too, now.

[KeiraH63]

You seem like you might have a little insight into my condition. To make a long story short, Teflon pads were placed around my Vagus, Glosssopharyngeal, and Spinal Accessory nerves on the left size in the REZ area of the brain stem. I had such a bad reaction to the pads that scar tissue pushed a pad so deeply into my Glossopharyngeal nerve that it had to be sectioned. My Vagus nerve was also damaged and I have this uncontrollable cough/sneeze (the two reflexes are tied together when the nerve acts up). You cannot live on hydrocodone and the only other medication that ever helped was a non-narcotic cough med with the generic name carbetapentane. I can't find it anymore and I am in misery. Any suggestions?

[SophieMae13]

I too have had the surgery, but it was almost 20 years ago. I have had this cough since 1992, when I was diagnosed with GERD. Since then I have seen tons of doctors to try to get the coughing under control. I was told by a doctor at Emory, it was all in my head, and I was making my self cough. I cough so hard, I throw up and have at least 3 or 4 bouts like this a day, plus just coughing all the time. I was told what I have is neurogenic cough. In 1997, I was told I had vagus nerve damage. It has affected a lot of things in my body, such as restless leg syndrome, blood pressure issues, and fybromyalgia. I am on several drugs to help with nerve inflamation, and they help some. I try to work out 3 times a week, and stay active.

[LinDarley]

I had all of those tests and no specialist could find what was wrong with me.  I was told to 'stop coughing' and 'did I think it was in my head'.  So I googled 'chronic cough and neurology'  and discovered I had an undiagnosed bout of shingles and now had PHN.  The virus had attacked my Vagus nerve and my diaphragm and peristalsis muscles were damaged to the point of barely working, my pelvic floor muscles weren't working at all.  I was breathless because of the non working diaphragm, coughing because of non working oesophagus muscles.  I went to a physiotherapist and reflexologist for help.  I insisted to my GP that I had PHN and started with Gabapentin for the pain.  This has helped enormously, but my muscle recovery is slow.  My diaphragm and pelvic floor muscles have only just started working again after 4 years and I have to exercise them everyday.
I am 53 now was 49 when got undiagnosed shingles.

[secretmode]

your diaphragm and peristalsis muscles are damaged because too much coughing?

[papt99]

wow.  I have had my cough for over 25 years.  I am 40.  I too have had all of the tests: MBS, gastroscope, laryngoscope, allergy testing and shots, inhalers, nose sprays, even had a uvulectomy. then last year I had  pH probe and it was highly positive for reflux.  So I had a nissen fundoplication.  well no more reflux, lost 30 pounds since my stomach is smaller, but still coughing.  I can stop it with narcotic cough meds but I became very addicted had to continue to up my dose.  I am weaing now but my cough is always there.  My main irritation is to the right side of my throat, just below my adam's apple.  I cadefinitely sympathize with all of you.  I have weird nerve symptoms as well with the ears, seasoned food, cold air, crackers, etc.  someone let me know what works.  UUGGGGGHH

[diane4421]

OMG..I am so shocked to see how many other people have this chronic cough..I had a tumor wraped around my vocal cord and since then I have been coughing for 9 years..found the only thing that helps is medications that dull the nerve...was told by 5 doctors that is not a recomended form of treatment..but for everyone with this cough I feel for you and if you are on a plane or in a public place I would be honored to have you sit by me..I swear I wont stare and think your terribly ill...Good luck to all of us out there

[MindyG74]

Did the Elavil work?  I'm 9 years into this thing and absolutely want to jump off a cliff.

Thanks!

[MindyG74]

Did the Elavil work?  I'm 9 years into this thing and absolutely want to jump off a cliff.

Thanks!

[Simplify]

Please have your b12 checked or google B12 deficiency.  Your symptoms sound like classice Pernicious anemia. See:  http://www.ajcn.org/content/93/3/542.abstract

[pjmt]

I have similar problem with permanent cronic cough since about 10 years . The trigger points are the left side of the pharynx, left ear, speaking.
Lots of examinations where negative for oncologic problems.
I was not taking medications for hypertension that cause cough (IECA group).
Some degree of gastro-esophageal reflux and respiratory allergy was well controlled with omeprazol and symbicort inhaled. But the cough still persisted.
The conclusion was that was caused by hypersensitivity of the vagus nerve, that can be a rare cause of asthma. The surgical option of cuting the nerve has many side effectes, said to me a very good ORL surgeon. He suggested to diminish the reactivity of the nerve with Gapapentin (Neurontin), beginning with a small dose and monitoring the results.
It's what I

[stslavin]

I am plagued with this same condition. I had a reaction to a drug in the summer of 2008. After the symptoms of my reaction cleared, I was left with bi-lateral pain in my hands and feet and a persistent cough. I too have been in and out of the allergist, pulmonologist, 2 neurologists, several primary care and 2 ENTs. I have took tests and many drugs including, amitriptyline and lyrica. I'm currently taking lyrica...primary care suggested it because it is now used for nerve related therapy for fibromyalgia patients. It may lessen the cough at times but I still have terrible episodes! I have also had experimental botox injections in my throat. They "numb" the muscles surrounding your voice box. The doctor was hoping this would "numb" the nerves leading up my throat such as the vagus nerve. It helped for about 3 weeks and then wore off. I had it a second time but did not help this time. It seems like a hit and miss therapy that is expensive and only done in one city in the whole state. I too am looking for permanent relief. My 4 year-old daughter thinks it's just "normal" for mommy to cough all of the time! If anyone has suggestions or questions regarding my care. Please comment!

[susiejan]

This is exactly what I have been suffering for 10 months. I eventually got amitryptiline off the doc after practically begging. It seemed to help at first decreasing the cough. However it is still chronic and i have many severe bouts day and night. i have been sick on occassion. My tongue is also affected , it is numb and tingling with episodes of severe waves of tickling leading to coughing. I cannot work  my social life is curtailed. It is highly embarrassing and debilitating.Help susie J

[KellKell40]

I have had a chronic cough for the past 7 1/2 yrs, and I have been to two ENT doctors and one family doctor, and so far, nothing is being done for me about the cough.  I was diagnosed with having grade B Esophagitis, and a slight Hiatal Hernia, when I had an outpatient procedure done in the hospital in Oct, 2009.  It feels as though there is something grainy way down deep in my throat that causes me to cough constantly.  One of the ENT doctors told me in Dec., 2009 that my vocal chords were swollen.  I also get an odor coming up from down there.  I especially notice the odor after I drink some water.  Now, ever since sometime in Feb., 2010, I have been getting a cobwebby and numbness type of feeling on the outside of the left side of my mouth, and like a crawling sensation there and like a hair is brushing up against my face.  Also, on Friday, February 12, 2010, my lower lip feels odd now.  Whenever I draw my lower lip taut, it feels like a string is being pulled against my lower lip.

[tired13209]

my husband has developed a "cough" that turns into a "seizure" event.  He starts coughing, his face turns beet red, his eyes water, his torso begins to twist as well as his arms and hands.  It seems he is never going to get his breath. He has fallen out of bed, off the couch and in the floor many times from blacking out.  He doesn't totally faint but he has no memory of what has happened.  He has been hospitalized twice.  He is being treated from GERD and has ulcers and esophagitis.  This has helped but he is still experiencing these episodes of seizures and coughing.  Anybody else ever hear of this or knows what is going on?

[macgyver_paul]

I've had the chronic cough you all describe for about 8 years. I had a bad case of pneumonia that made the condition much worse and have never gone more than a week or two where I can breathe normally. The coughing is so bad I black out. I've tried all doctors, allergist, lung function,been told it was asthma, etc. as described by many been treated for acid reflux with aciphex and been given Tussinex to calm cough at nite to sleep. My ear, nose and throat doctor that I just recently found was looking at my sinuses and by accident discovered a growth in my throat. It turned out to be a baseball sized schwannoma tumor growing on the Vagus nerve. This has probably been the source of all my problems. I believe the nerve as been stimulated by the tumor and been sending wrong signals everywhere else. As I am in process of getting this removed I will have to update if conditions improve.