I have been coughing for 8 years. Many clinics, doctors and specialists I have seen; treated for Asthma (alhtough I don't have asthma), Reflux (I take pantaloc), and nasal sprays for post nasal drip. Nothing has cured my cough. I still cough, everyday, many times a day and a couple of times a week end up vomiting. It is exactly as you say: isolating, embarrasing and leads to a feeling of despair.