Chronic Cough
A chronic cough is one that lasts a long time (typically more than 6 weeks) and is different from an acute cough. An acute cough is very common after a cold or the flu, but usually starts improving or has completely improved within 3 weeks.
You should see your GP if you've had a cough for more than three weeks or if your cough is progressively getting worse. If you experience breathing difficulties, chest pain or you cough up blood, speak to your GP or contact a lung specialist like Dr Man immediately.
If your GP is unsure what's causing your cough, they should refer you to a lung specialist like Dr Man, who may request further tests, including:
The vast majority cases of cough are not due to lung cancer – however lung specialists such as Dr Man can rapidly identify the problem and provide appropriate treatment. The cause of a chronic cough can be identified in most people. The commonest causes are:
You can learn more about coughs from the NHS Choices website.
You should see your GP if you've had a cough for more than three weeks or if your cough is progressively getting worse. If you experience breathing difficulties, chest pain or you cough up blood, speak to your GP or contact a lung specialist like Dr Man immediately.
If your GP is unsure what's causing your cough, they should refer you to a lung specialist like Dr Man, who may request further tests, including:
- a chest X-ray - to see if you have a chest infection
- taking a sample of your phlegm for analysis - to help decide if antibiotics should be prescribed
- lung function (breathing tests to see how well your lungs are working and to see if you have an underlying respiratory condition)
- allergy testing - to see whether your cough is caused by something you're allergic to, such as house dust mites
- a CT scan to exclude a lung disease or cancer
The vast majority cases of cough are not due to lung cancer – however lung specialists such as Dr Man can rapidly identify the problem and provide appropriate treatment. The cause of a chronic cough can be identified in most people. The commonest causes are:
- allergic rhinitis, such as hay fever
- a flare-up of a long-term condition such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or chronic bronchitis
- gastro-oesophageal reflux disease - due to irritation and damage caused by stomach acid
- smoking
You can learn more about coughs from the NHS Choices website.