Welcome to another inspiring episode of Passion for Patients, hosted by Tonya Winders. Today, Tonya sits down with Irantzu Muerza, the president of Asthma and Allergy Spain and a dedicated member of the Global Allergy and Airways Patient Platform (GAAP) family. Muerza takes us through her deeply personal journey as both a patient living with severe asthma and chronic cough, and as a passionate patient advocate. From years of misdiagnosis and the life-changing moment of meeting a supportive lung specialist, to the founding of patient associations and advocating for greater awareness of chronic cough, Muerza shares the emotional and physical challenges she’s faced—and the transformative power of community and perseverance. Listen in as she discusses the ongoing stigma of chronic cough, her hopes for more effective treatments, and the importance of advocacy, education, and support for patients worldwide.

Here are 5 key takeaways from this episode:

1. The Power of Patient Advocacy

Irantzu Muerza shared her personal journey from being underdiagnosed for severe asthma to becoming a leading advocate for patients in Spain. Her story highlights how receiving the right diagnosis and support can empower individuals to help others facing similar challenges.

2. Chronic Cough: More Than Just a Symptom

This episode sheds light on the misconception that chronic cough is simply an asthma symptom. Irantzu Muerza discussed her struggle to get a proper diagnosis and the difference between chronic cough and symptoms of other illnesses, raising awareness about this often-overlooked condition.

3. The Mental and Social Impact of Chronic Cough

The discussion emphasized how living with chronic cough affects more than just physical health—it leads to sleep deprivation, social stigma, and mental health struggles, especially in the post-COVID era where coughing can draw uncomfortable attention.

4. Lack of Effective Treatments and Research Needs

Irantzu Muerza highlighted the current gap in effective, approved treatments for chronic cough, with most solutions being basic home remedies. The episode calls for more research and development of medications to address this debilitating issue.

5. The Importance of Patient Empowerment and Physician Education

Both Tonya Winders and Irantzu Muerza stressed the need for patients to be active in advocating for their own health, and for doctors to recognize and properly diagnose chronic cough as a disease. Education and collaboration are key to improving outcomes for those affected.

Thanks for tuning in to this episode of Passion for Patients! If you enjoyed hearing about Irantzu Muerza's powerful patient advocacy journey and insights on living with chronic cough, please like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring patient stories. Don't forget to share this episode with anyone who may benefit—and join us next time for more on the Passion for Patients podcast, hosted by Tonya Winders. Have a great day!

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