Expert: Dr. Kristina Conner - 6/15/2010

Question
Dear Dr Conner,

I believe (to put it in a very simple way) that every dis-ease is associated with various subconscious or psychological traumas or realeses thereof.    
Could you please tell me what a mostly dry cough could generally be associated with, when it is not accompanied by a cold or sore throat or any allergic reaction?
Thanks in advance for your time and energy.
Best regards,

Carmen

Answer
Hello Carmen,
I do think that often there is a psychological link, but first consider ruling out some common physical reasons. The most likely physical reason is an uncovered sensitivity to an allergen either environmental or food.   Other possibilites are GI reflux, respiratory diseases, and low immune function.  I can't say without taking your history whether any of these are likely, and it may be a combination of physical/ psychosocial factors.  As far as energetics of disease, there are differences according to the system.  In Chinese medicine the lungs are connected to the emotion grief and many people find lingering respiratory conditions may be an expression of grief.  In the Chakra system, the 4th chakra is involved with anger, grief, and/ or love.  
I hope that gives you some ideas to start with.  If you can, you might want to see a naturopathic (www.naturopathic.org) or holistic pracititioner for more specific advice.  
In health,
Dr Conner