A cough that lasts longer than eight weeks in adults is called a chronic cough. It is a symptom, not a disease, and finding the underlying cause is the key to lasting relief.
Common symptoms
- Dry or wet cough lasting more than 8 weeks
- Throat clearing or a tickle in the throat
- Cough that worsens at night or after meals
- Hoarseness or sore throat from repeated coughing
- Breathlessness or wheeze with the cough
How we help
- A detailed history and chest examination
- Chest X-ray, lung function tests and FeNO where needed
- Checking for common causes such as asthma, post-nasal drip and acid reflux
- Treating the cause rather than just suppressing the cough
When to seek urgent care. Coughing up blood, unexplained weight loss, or fever with night sweats should be checked without delay.
This page is for general information and is not a substitute for medical advice. Please consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.