Sensory hyperreactivity – a possible mechanism underlying cough and asthma‐like symptoms

Abstract

The capsaicin provocation test may be a valuable method for showing not only a greater cough sensitivity, but also asthma-like symptoms. The pathophysiology underlying the symptoms may be related to increased sensitivity of free, overactive nerve endings in the respiratory mucosa. Therefore, we suggest that this overreaction in the lower airways be called "sensory hyperreactivity".