Should I be worried about my persistent cough?

A chronic cough can last longer than a few months and could be a sign of something more serious, particularly if you notice other symptoms, such as shortness of breath and chest pain. However a persistent cough can be quite common and may be the result of conditions such as allergies or asthma, but it is important to visit your doctor to pinpoint the cause. Here, one of our expert respiratory consultants Dr Richard Turner shares his expert advice on what to do if you’re living with chronic cough.

What's the difference between chronic cough and an acute cough?

These terms just refer to the time for which the cough has been present. An acute cough lasts typically only a few days, but can last up to three weeks, or even up to two months. A chronic cough is any cough that lasts longer than two months.

Acute coughs are very common and most are self-limiting (i.e. get better on their own). A cold, or common upper respiratory tract viral infection would be the most common cause, usually treated with symptomatic relief alone. If associated with other symptoms, particularly difficulty breathing and chest pain, acute coughs though may signify something more potentially serious such as pneumonia.
 

Can chronic cough cause back pain?

Yes, and also pain in the ribs, but coughing can also worsen pre-existing pain. Coughing violently can also occasionally cause rib fractures, although no particular treatment is usually required other than pain relief.

Back pain which persists, particularly in the upper half of the spine, interrupts sleep, and/or associated with altered strength or sensation in the arms or legs should prompt medical attention whatever the cause.
 

Can chronic cough cause hoarseness?

Possibly, but hoarseness may be related to the cause of the cough itself. The most common cause of hoarseness is probably acute laryngitis, an acute viral infection of the throat that should usually get better quickly on its own. A persistent change in the voice lasting longer than one to two weeks could indicate something else and should prompt medical attention.
 

How dangerous is a chronic cough?

Coughs lasting longer than three weeks should always prompt medical attention. They can be the first indication of a potentially significant medical problem in some instances, which is better diagnosed and treated early. Lung cancer is one such condition, particularly in people over the age of 50 who have smoked. Other conditions include asthma and can also potentially be dangerous.

Coughing itself is rarely dangerous or damaging to the lung although severe coughing episodes in some people can occasionally cause fainting and injury.


Dr Turner specialises in treating respiratory infection, breathing problems and chronic cough. You can book an appointment to see him via his Top Doctor’s profile here.