Chronic Cough after COVID-19 Improved by Korean Medicine Treatment Including <i>Chungsangboha-tang</i>: A Case Report

Background: Chronic cough, defined as cough persisting for more than eight weeks, is a common clinical problem that significantly impairs quality of life. Post-infectious cough, particularly after COVID-19, may involve neuropathic mechanisms such as vagal hypersensitivity and central nervous system dysregulation. Conventional treatment options are often limited, underscoring the need for complementary approaches such as Korean medicine.Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of Korean medicine treatment, including <i>Chungsangboha-tang</i>, in a patient with post-COVID-19 chronic cough accompanied by mononeuropathy.Methods: A female patient with chronic cough and right lower-limb neuropathic pain following COVID-19 was hospitalized and treated with herbal medicine (<i>Chungsangboha-tang</i>), acupuncture, pharmacopuncture, moxibustion, and physical therapy. Clinical outcomes were assessed using the Cough Symptom Score (CSS) and Cough Assessment Test (COAT) for cough severity, the Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) for pain, and the European Quality of Life Five Dimensions (EQ-5D) for general health status. Assessments were conducted at baseline, during hospitalization, and at discharge.Results: NRS scores decreased, indicating reduced neuropathic pain. The EQ-5D score improved, reflecting better quality of life. CSS and COAT scores showed alleviation of cough symptoms with reduced frequency and intensity of both daytime and nighttime cough. Laboratory markers (ESR and CRP) also decreased. No adverse events were observed.Conclusions: Comprehensive Korean medicine treatment, including <i>Chungsangboha-tang</i>, may be effective in managing post-COVID-19 chronic cough with neuropathic features. This case highlights the potential role of Korean medicine in addressing post-COVID-19 chronic cough and supports further clinical studies.