PATIENT-REPORTED SYMPTOMS, IMPACTS, AND TREATMENT PREFERENCES IN REFRACTORY OR UNEXPLAINED CHRONIC COUGH: A QUALITATIVE STUDY

Abstract

<h3>Introduction</h3> There are limited qualitative data describing patients' experience of the symptoms and impacts of refractory chronic cough (RCC) or unexplained chronic cough (UCC). Objectives of this study were to determine patients' perceptions of the key symptoms and impacts of RCC and UCC on well-being, health-related quality of life, work productivity, and social relationships. Additionally, patients' perception of meaningful treatment benefit was explored. <h3>Methods</h3> This prospective observational study enrolled 30 adults (aged =18 years) with physician diagnosed RCC or UCC. Two trained qualitative researchers conducted individual, in-depth telephone interviews among individuals with RCC or UCC. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, coded, and systematically analyzed to identify content themes. <h3>Results</h3> Most individuals were female (83%), white (87%), and older (mean age, 65 ±12.42 years). There were equal numbers of RCC and UCC individuals. Most common symptoms of RCC or UCC were sensation of upper airway cough syndrome (80%), hoarseness (77%), and tickle or lump in the throat (73%). Less than half (43%) of individuals reported taking medication that improved their symptoms. Common cough triggers were speaking or singing (67%) and smells or environment irritants (67%). In over half of respondents, RCC or UCC hindered communication, caused embarrassment, frustration, worry, and diminished quality of life. Perception of meaningful treatment benefits varied widely across respondents. <h3>Conclusion</h3> Individuals with RCC or UCC reported a wide range of symptoms and cough triggers. There was substantial impact of RCC or UCC on individuals' daily activities and emotional well-being. Less than half of the individuals reported meaningful treatment benefits describing an important unmet medical need.