See the Signs

What is a cough?

Coughing is a necessary part of our body’s normal cleaning routine for the lungs. We cough to clear unwanted mucus or phlegm from our airways, and to remove any foreign particles such as dust. The most common cause of a cough is a viral upper respiratory tract infection or cold. Usually, the cough caused by a cold clears up within three weeks. When coughing lasts longer than this, it may be considered a persistent cough and you should make an appointment with your GP to investigate. 

When should I see a doctor for my cough? 

It’s hard to know if a cough is trying to tell you something “It’s probably nothing”, we tell ourselves. But paying attention to that cough might just save your life. Coughing becomes a problem when it:  

• is unexplained and persistent (for more than three weeks)  
• is accompanied by other symptoms such as breathlessness  
• results in complications such as pain, fatigue and trouble sleeping.  

Coughing can be the sign of an underlying medical condition, such as lung cancer or lung disease. It’s important to see your GP to find out why you’re coughing. Early detection is best, so why risk it? Learn all the warning signs of lung disease and lung cancer by completing our Lung Health Checklist above.