Coughology: The Art and Science of Managing Cough - A Pulmonologist’s Perspective

INTRODUCTION Cough, a protective reflex in humans, can become a cause for concern when it persists due to an underlying disease, worrying both the patient and the doctor. As one of the most common symptoms prompting a visit to the doctor, cough has gained even more significance post coronavirus disease, bringing anxiety and fear to even the average person. For doctors, this seemingly simple symptom often involves a complex interplay of factors, making both diagnosis and effective treatment challenging. “Coughology: The Art and Science of Managing Cough - A Pulmonologist’s Perspective”, published by DocMode, is a much-needed and pioneering book by Dr. Vikram Jaggi.[1] Now in its second edition, this book assists doctors in managing patients with persistent cough. Cough is relevant to all medical specialties, whether general practice, paediatrics, or respiratory medicine. Even specialists in other fields should have a basic understanding of cough aetiology and treatment. This book offers chapters on cough physiology, categorisation, approaches to diagnosis, and common causes. The author provides succinct descriptions of common cough causes, highlighting important clinical pointers. No cause is overlooked, with sufficient attention given to post-viral cough, cough variant asthma, upper airway cough syndrome, drug-induced cough, and psychogenic cough—common conditions faced by doctors. The book also emphasises the importance of not missing serious diseases that may present with cough, including a chapter on red flags. Additionally, the book addresses often neglected topics like pollution-related cough and antibiotic misuse. Valuable chapters on home remedies and traditional Indian alternatives or complementary treatments are also included, acknowledging the importance of allopathic doctors having basic knowledge of these traditional practices. “Coughology: The Art and Science of Managing Cough - A Pulmonologist’s Perspective” is essential for your shelf, serving as both leisurely reading and a practical reference. It aims to bring a practical approach to cough management to our desk in an easy-to-read format. This book will serve as a practical guide to all our questions in diagnosing and managing patients with cough, empowering us with the requisite knowledge to recognise the complexity of this symptom and its effective management. CONTENT AND STRUCTURE The book is meticulously structured into 15 chapters, each addressing critical aspects of cough from its physiology and classification to its diagnosis, management, and the impact of environmental factors like pollution. The systematic approach begins with the importance and prevalence of cough, moving through its natural protective mechanisms and culminating in detailed chapters on common causes, red flags, and the misuse of antibiotics. THEMES AND INSIGHTS The book emphasises the multifaceted nature of cough, exploring both the physician’s and the patient’s perspectives. It highlights the social and psychological impacts of chronic cough on patients, such as embarrassment, social isolation, and anxiety, providing a holistic view that extends beyond mere clinical symptoms. This patient-centered approach is a recurring theme, underscoring the importance of listening to patients and understanding their experiences. From a clinical standpoint, the book delves into the physiology of cough, categorising it into acute, subacute, and chronic types, and discusses the differential diagnosis and appropriate investigations. The necessity of a thorough history and physical examination supported by relevant investigations like spirometry, chest X-rays, and high-resolution computed tomography scans is stressed. The book also covers less commonly addressed topics such as the relationship between pollution and cough and the role of alternative medicine. WRITING STYLE The writing is clear, concise, and accessible, making complex concepts understandable without over-simplifying them. The use of real-world examples and case studies enhances the practical utility of the book, providing readers with concrete applications of the theoretical knowledge presented. The inclusion of key messages at the end of chapters aids in reinforcing important points and serves as a quick reference for busy practitioners. OVERALL ASSESSMENT “Coughology: The Art and Science of Managing Cough - A Pulmonologist’s Perspective” is an invaluable resource for medical professionals, particularly those in respiratory medicine, general practice, and paediatrics. Dr. Jaggi’s expertise and passion for patient education shine through, making this book not only a clinical guide but also a compassionate manual for improving patient care. Its comprehensive coverage, practical insights, and patient-centred approach make it a must-read for doctors seeking to enhance their understanding and management of cough.