Cough for 18 Months? ChatGPT Found the Cause
In a remarkable case that’s gone viral, AI is once again proving its value this time in the field of healthcare. Shreya turned to OpenAI’s ChatGPT when established medical systems failed to pinpoint the source of her mother’s chronic sickness. Her story sheds light on both the promising role of AI in modern medicine and the critical gaps that still exist in today’s healthcare system.
An 18-Month Struggle with No Answers
Shreya’s mother had a severe cough for more than a year and a half. Despite seeking help from leading doctors and specialists across various disciplines ranging from allopathy to ayurveda and homoeopathy, her condition continued to worsen. Alarmingly, the cough escalated to internal bleeding.
Doctors warned that if left unresolved, the issue could become life-threatening within six months. Feeling helpless and desperate, Shreya began exploring unconventional methods, including AI-driven tools, in a last-ditch effort to find answers.
When Doctors Missed It, ChatGPT Stepped In
Out of options, Shreya turned to ChatGPT, OpenAI’s AI-powered chatbot. She carefully described her mother’s symptoms and medical history in detail. Unlike typical web searches, which often return generic information, ChatGPT provided a thoughtful and context-aware response.
Among the possibilities it listed, one suggestion stood out as a potential side effect from a commonly prescribed blood pressure (BP) medication.
ChatGPT followed up with a pointed question:
“Is she on BP medication containing this specific ingredient?”
To Shreya’s surprise, the answer was yes. Her mother had indeed been taking that medication for some time. The AI model explained that the drug was known to cause a persistent cough and, in rare cases, internal bleeding.
Taking AI Insights to the Doctor
Armed with this new insight, Shreya consulted her mother’s doctors again. This time, she specifically asked about the BP medication’s side effects. Upon review, the medical team confirmed ChatGPT’s suggestion that the drug her mother was taking was indeed known to cause chronic coughing.
The doctors quickly changed the prescription. Within just a few weeks, her mother began to show significant improvement. The persistent cough began to fade, and the internal bleeding stopped. Shreya shared her joy online, stating,
“Now she’s finally healing. Not exaggerating, but ChatGPT saved her life.”
Applause for AI, Concerns for Medicine
Shreya’s post quickly gained attention on X, drawing praise for ChatGPT and renewed interest in AI’s potential role in healthcare. Thousands of individuals shared their stories, offered support, and asked questions.
However, the story also sparked criticism of the medical system. One user commented:
“Glad your mom is better. But how did so many doctors miss a common side effect? That’s the real issue.”
Others pointed out how AI offered faster and more objective suggestions, with one post saying:
“ChatGPT gives real possibilities quickly. It’s not biased like search engines or even some professionals.”
Conclusion
This story is not just about technology; it’s about what happens when patients feel unheard or unseen by traditional healthcare systems. While AI tools like ChatGPT should never replace trained medical professionals, they can act as valuable support tools, especially when patients feel they’ve hit a wall.
The case also highlights the importance of open-mindedness in healthcare. Sometimes, a fresh perspective, even one from an AI, can help uncover something that was overlooked.
Source: Inputs from various media Sources
Priya Bairagi
Reviewed by Dr Aarti Nehra (MBBS, MMST)
I’m a pharmacist with a strong background in health sciences. I hold a BSc from Delhi University and a pharmacy degree from PDM University. I write articles and daily health news while interviewing doctors to bring you the latest insights. In my free time, you’ll find me at the gym or lost in a sci-fi novel.
