Overview
Most coughs are caused by colds and settle within three weeks. A cough lasting longer than eight weeks in adults is called chronic and should be checked.
Symptoms
- Dry or tickly cough
- Cough bringing up mucus
- Cough that is worse at night or after exercise
- Associated sore throat, runny nose or wheeze
Causes and risk factors
Causes include viral infections, asthma, post-nasal drip, acid reflux, smoking, COPD, certain blood pressure medicines, tuberculosis and, rarely, lung cancer.
Diagnosis
A doctor examines you and may arrange a chest X-ray, lung function tests, sputum tests or other investigations depending on the cause.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the cause. Fluids, rest and honey help a cough from a cold. Other causes may need inhalers, reflux treatment, antibiotics or stopping smoking.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if a cough lasts more than three weeks, or if you cough up blood, have weight loss, night sweats, chest pain or breathlessness.
This information is for general education and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. For a medical emergency, call +92-51-8446666 or go to the nearest emergency department.
