Quando l’orecchio fa tossire: il riflesso dimenticato di Arnold; When the ear makes you cough: the forgotten Arnold’s reflex.

Coughing is the mechanical response to stimulation of certain anatomical structures linked to the innervation of the vagus nerve, and frequently leads to consulting the physicians. The differential diagnosis of the causes of coughing is very broad. Understanding the origin of this symptom is very important, as treatment options differ significantly depending on the triggering factor. The entire diagnostic process still poses a challenge today. If not conducted properly, in some cases, it leads to very expensive and not very useful exams. The causes of coughing are not always pathological. Among these is Arnold's reflex, which is nothing more than a physiological response to mechanical stimulation of the ear, discovered two centuries ago. It is a rare condition, the frequency of which increases in people with chronic cough. A comprehensive medical history, in addition to an otoscopic examination, are simple and sufficient tools for diagnosing Arnold's reflex