Understanding a prolonged cough

A cough can linger after a common cold or acute bronchitis because the airways remain sensitive. Post-nasal mucus from allergic rhinitis may trigger throat clearing, while acid reflux can irritate the throat or voice box even without obvious heartburn. Asthma may cause cough with wheeze, chest tightness or breathlessness. Bronchiectasis can produce a long-term cough with regular phlegm, and chronic cough is the name used when cough persists as a continuing problem. Bronchiolitis is mainly considered in babies and young children. The duration, sound, phlegm, triggers and associated symptoms help a clinician narrow the possibilities.

Arrange an assessment if the cough is not settling, keeps returning or affects sleep, exercise or work. Note when it began, whether it is dry or brings up phlegm, and whether cold air, exertion, meals, lying down or dust triggers it. Avoid smoking and second-hand smoke, drink enough fluid and use simple soothing measures such as warm drinks if suitable for you. Do not start leftover antibiotics or another person’s inhaler. Bring a list of medicines because some can cause cough, and mention allergies or reflux symptoms.

Seek emergency care for severe breathing difficulty, blue lips, chest pain, coughing blood, fainting or sudden confusion. Get prompt medical advice for a high or returning fever, unexplained weight loss, night sweats, worsening breathlessness or a cough that is rapidly changing. A baby or young child with noisy breathing, poor feeding, unusual sleepiness or pauses in breathing needs urgent assessment. Do not assume a prolonged cough is simply a leftover cold when red flags are present.

Ask what examination or testing may clarify the cause, whether an inhaler or reflux treatment is appropriate, and which changes should prompt an urgent review. Tell the clinician about smoking exposure, allergies, medicines, phlegm colour and breathlessness.