The cough reflex (as it is known) is initiated by stimulation of sensory nerves (cough receptors) in the larynx and airways. This generates a stream of nerve impulses to the brain activating the ...

Perhaps long-term exposure to tobacco smoke desensitizes the cough receptors residing within the airway epithelium. Cough receptor desensitization may explain the lower incidence of angiotensin ...

When these receptors detect an irritant, they send signals to the brain, which then decides whether a cough is necessary.

The adverse effects of AT-II-receptor antagonists dizziness, headache, upper-respiratory- tract infection, cough, and gastrointestinal disturbances occur at about the same rate as with placebo.