Cough Receptor

Cough receptors are specialized sensory nerve endings located primarily in the respiratory tract that detect mechanical and chemical irritants, initiating the cough reflex to protect the airways and lungs. They are found throughout the respiratory tract and also in other areas, like the ear and esophagus. These receptors play a crucial role in airway defense by triggering a rapid expulsion of air to clear irritants. Persistent activation or hypersensitivity of these receptors can contribute to chronic cough. Different types include mechanoreceptors and chemoreceptors. Neural pathways involve afferent signals via the vagus nerve to the brainstem, central processing, and efferent signals back to respiratory muscles.

Other names

Airway Sensory Nerve EndingsTracheobronchial Cough ReceptorsMechanical Irritant Receptors (Airway)Chemical Irritant Receptors (Airway)

Modulation of cough receptor activity (e.g., desensitization, antagonism)