Approach to Chronic Cough Associated With Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease as Per Ayurveda: A Case Report

Abstract Chronic cough associated with gastro-esophageal reflux disease and attributed to extra-esophageal manifestations is a new term in the current era. It poses a challenge in medical practice due to frequent recurrences of the condition and no availability of definitive treatment. Surgical options are available; however, they are expensive and hamper quality of life among the diseased. Ayurveda can provide definitive solutions through appropriate management considering the condition as Pitta Pradhana Kapha Anubandhi Kasa (~cough reflex due to Pitta and Kapha dosha). Kasa (~cough) is a disease of Pranavaha Srotasa (~respiratory system) that manifests due to the vitiation of Annavaha Srotasa (~digestive tract). Thus, there should be due consideration of Annavaha Srotasa while treating Kasa. A 50-year-old male patient visited the OPD on 11th July 2023 with chief complaints of chronic cough associated with gastro-esophageal reflux disease. As per the Ayurveda diagnosis, he was diagnosed with Pitta Pradhana Kapha Anubandhi Kasa and treated accordingly with Koshtha Shodhana (~medicated purgation) with Avipattikara Choorna (5 g) before dinner and Shamana Chikitsa (~conservative management) for the next 6 weeks with Samasharkara Choorna (1 g) two times after food with 3 mL of honey and 1 mL of ghee and Agastya Haritaki Avaleha (10 g) on early morning empty stomach with lukewarm water. Follow-up without medication was done after 4 weeks to observe relapse in the symptoms. Frequency Scale for Symptoms of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease and Leicester Cough Questionnaire scale were used in evaluating the effect of the treatment management. At the end of the treatment, significant results were achieved with no relapse in symptoms of cough in two consecutive quarterly follow-ups.