What role do lifestyle modifications play in the management of chronic cough in primary care?

Lifestyle modifications play a key role in managing chronic cough in primary care by addressing modifiable risk factors and supporting symptom relief.

• Smoking cessation is critical, as smoking-related cough is common; patients should be advised to stop smoking with the understanding that coughing may transiently increase during cessation efforts ¹.
• Avoidance of environmental and occupational triggers is recommended to reduce cough caused by irritants; referral to specialists may be needed for assessment of occupational exposures ¹.
• Optimizing ventilation such as improving air quality by opening windows or using fans can help relieve symptoms ².
• Postural and breathing techniques including controlled breathing and effective coughing techniques can be taught to patients to manage symptoms better ².
• Addressing coexisting conditions such as asthma, gastro-oesophageal reflux disease, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) through lifestyle and medical management is important, including pulmonary rehabilitation and physical activity encouragement in COPD ¹,³.
• Vaccinations (e.g., influenza and pneumococcal) are advised in COPD patients to reduce exacerbations that may worsen cough ³.

Overall, lifestyle modifications in primary care focus on smoking cessation, environmental control, symptom management techniques, and supporting treatment of underlying causes to improve chronic cough outcomes ¹,²,³.