I am enduring this same exact experience. It is now 20 months and I am stuck in the cycle of specialist. And yes, the Ricola original cough drop is the ONLY one that offers a bit of relief. When the cough drop is gone the cough is back. It seems to be that cough drop has a hint of menthol that offers a moment of relief. Same cycles of medications mentioned (nortriptyline, singular, antibiotics, prednisone, pregabalin, allergy test, and lots of bloodwork. The bloodwork with extra panels explored were all clear. The allergy testing only revealed four very mild allergens but ENT cycled back and said lets try allergy treatment which they said would be 9-12 months before any progress would be revealed.)
I am so very sorry for all of you who are also suffering with this very rude cough. As mentioned, it is life altering, body jolting, sleep and socially disrupting. The conversation always tends to end up about my cough. Someone will kindly say, "have you tried gargling with salt water? Oh my goodness... I want to scream.
I have learned about the vagal nerve and practiced some goofy exercises, relaxation with meditation and breathing techniques with continued coughing. Praying for a treatment to be revealed to all of us. Thank you for sharing your experiences. - Tammy