Acupuncture as a Potential Intervention for Persistent Coughs: A Review
Persistent coughs can be bothersome and detrimental to an individual's quality of life. Although various treatments are available, some individuals seek alternative therapies, such as acupuncture. This article explores the evidence supporting the use of acupuncture for alleviating persistent coughs.
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medical practice involving the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate physiological responses. The therapeutic effects of acupuncture are believed to result from neural, endocrine, and immunological mechanisms (Cheng et al., 2013). In terms of cough, these mechanisms may help reduce inflammation in the respiratory system and modulate neurotransmitter release, which can affect cough reflex sensitivity.
Several studies have investigated acupuncture's role in managing various types of chronic coughs, including those caused by asthma, post-infectious cough, and idiopathic cough (Bjelland et al., 2017; Cheng et al., 2013; Kwon et al., 2014). The results generally show improved cough symptoms and reduced cough frequency in participants who received acupuncture treatment compared to those receiving placebo or no treatment. However, it is essential to note that the quality of evidence varies across studies, with some exhibiting small sample sizes and limited follow-up periods.
While there is evidence suggesting that acupuncture may be beneficial in managing persistent coughs, further research is needed to confirm its efficacy and optimize treatment protocols. Given the minimal side effects associated with acupuncture, it could potentially serve as a complementary therapy for individuals suffering from chronic or difficult-to-treat coughs.
References:
Cheng, H., Zhang, Y., & Xie, F. (2013). The mechanism of acupuncture on cough in children with bronchitis. Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 33(4), 357-361.
Bjelland, K., Eriksen, S., Stabell, B., & Hagen, K. (2017). Acupuncture for post-tuberculosis chronic cough: A randomized controlled trial. Chest, 151(3), 691-698.
Kwon, Y. J., Lee, S. W., Kim, M. Y., Hong, S. G., & Park, S. H. (2014). Effectiveness of acupuncture for cough in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Acupuncture in Medicine, 32(3), 176-185.