Asking Eric: Embarrassing persistent cough causing social anxiety

Eric Thomas, a reader in his 70s, has been experiencing persistent coughing fits triggered by talking too long or too loudly, which disrupt his conversations and cause social anxiety. Despite his efforts, he has not found a clear diagnosis or effective treatment for these episodes. These coughing fits, which can last for several minutes, have made it difficult for him to communicate without interruptions.

Thomas suggests that informing people about his condition could help reduce the tension and make social interactions more comfortable. By explaining that his cough is not contagious and should not be a cause for concern, he believes it could alleviate some of the sensitivity and anxiety surrounding the issue. This approach aims to foster a more welcoming and understanding environment during conversations.