That annoying cough… and Speech Pathology?
When an annoying cough or constant throat clearing interrupts our conversations, it can be frustrating- particularly during COVID peak periods!
Sometimes, the cough or tightness in the throat is as bad as feeling like no air is going in or out. This is truly debilitating and impacts not only our own lives, but also our close ones.
Thankfully, speech pathology offers valuable techniques and strategies to help individuals overcome and manage the spectrum of these difficulties.
Persistent coughing, throat clearing or tightness/difficulty breathing can occur for many reasons, including respiratory issues, allergies, reflux, significant recent illness and more.
It is important that initially, these issues are evaluated by a medical professional - ENT or Respiratory Physician - to rule out any underlying health conditions with the lungs or larynx.
Luckily, Ellie works in a specialist practice with a respiratory physician and Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) Surgeon. In addition, Ellie has advanced practice skills to provide instrumental assessments of the upper airway to support evaluation of the upper airway - this is completed in conjunction with ENT and can provide essential understanding and visualisation for biofeedback, education and sometimes simply peace of mind for clients.
Some strategies Ellie may introduce to you may be:
Breathing - strategies to support you when feeling ‘tight’ or short of breath - when exercising, when someone sprays perfume, the cold air hits the back of your throat, or you’ve been talking for a long period.
Vocal care - Ellie can provide education and tips on ensuring your upper airway is as healthy as possible
Cough suppression techniques - depending on the severity, Ellie will design strategies best suited to you
Posture and alignment strategies - this may include relaxation, stretches, or laryngeal postures to support a relaxed, ‘open throat’ posture.
Discussing other medical issues that may be impacting your upper airway, including reflux or medication effects
