Quick answer
A cough that lasts for weeks or keeps returning deserves a structured assessment. The aim is not only to suppress the cough but to understand why it is happening.
What counts as a chronic cough?
A cough that persists for weeks or keeps coming back deserves a structured assessment rather than repeated short courses of symptom relief.
How is the cause found?
The goal is to understand why the cough is happening, not simply to suppress it. Assessment may include your history, an examination, lung function testing and a review of imaging.
Which symptoms need urgent attention?
Seek urgent medical attention for severe breathing difficulty, coughing up blood, chest pain or other acute warning signs.
Not for emergencies. If breathing difficulty is severe or getting worse quickly, call 998 or go to the nearest emergency department.
Common questions
When should I see a specialist about chronic cough?
Book a specialist assessment if symptoms are persistent, keep coming back, affect daily activities or sleep, or are not improving as expected with current treatment.
Is this an emergency?
Yes, if breathing difficulty is severe or getting worse quickly, or you have chest pain or are coughing up blood. Call 998 or go to the nearest emergency department. A clinic appointment is not the right route for emergencies.
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