Persistent Cough: A Symptom Worth Investigating
Eight weeks is the threshold for chronic cough.
Dr. Hélène Marquet
Pulmonologist
In simple terms
Persistent cough has many causes. A systematic approach narrows them down quickly.
What you need to remember
- Common causes of chronic cough — Upper airway cough syndrome (post-nasal drip), asthma/cough-variant asthma, GERD, ACE inhibitor use, post-infectious.
- When to investigate further — Haemoptysis, weight loss, smoker over 40, breathlessness, night sweats — chest imaging and specialist review.
- Treatment — Identify and treat the underlying cause.
- Acute: <3 weeks (usually viral)
- Subacute: 3-8 weeks (often post-infectious)
- Chronic: >8 weeks
Common causes of chronic cough
Upper airway cough syndrome (post-nasal drip), asthma/cough-variant asthma, GERD, ACE inhibitor use, post-infectious.
When to investigate further
Haemoptysis, weight loss, smoker over 40, breathlessness, night sweats — chest imaging and specialist review.
Treatment
Identify and treat the underlying cause. Cough suppressants have a limited role; speech and language therapy helps refractory chronic cough.
Stopping ACE inhibitors resolves the cough within weeks if it is the cause.
The words explained
Medical terms used above, in everyday language.
- Chronic
- A problem that lasts a long time, usually more than three months, and often comes back.
- Acute
- Something that starts suddenly and lasts a short time.
When should you see a doctor?
- Your symptoms last more than a few weeks or keep coming back.
- They get worse quickly, or stop you doing everyday things.
- You notice sudden pain, breathing trouble, fainting or bleeding — seek urgent care.
- You already take medication and want to change anything about it.
This article explains general health information. It does not replace advice from your own doctor.
Frequently asked questions
- What is Persistent Cough: A Symptom Worth Investigating?
- Persistent cough has many causes. A systematic approach narrows them down quickly.
- What are the main symptoms or signs of Persistent Cough: A Symptom Worth Investigating?
- Common signs vary from person to person. The article above lists the symptoms to watch for, how they progress, and when they need medical attention.
- When should you see a doctor for Persistent Cough: A Symptom Worth Investigating?
- See a doctor if symptoms last more than a few weeks, get worse quickly, stop you doing everyday things, or if you notice sudden pain, breathing trouble, fainting or bleeding.
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