Coping with... A CHRONIC COUGH

A cough lasting more than four weeks may have a serious cause and needs investigating

- Dr Gill Jenkins

Coughing is caused by irritation of the respiratory tract, resulting in muscular spasms of the diaphragm and intercostal muscles in an attempt to clear mucus. Most coughs are due to mild viral upper respiratory infections, which will settle over five to 10 days. A cough that doesn’t settle after three to four weeks should be discussed with your GP. There are many possible causes, the commonest being chronic respiratory disorders, including asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary disease. However, post-infection coughs can sometimes last this long. Other conditions including hay fever, sinusitis and gastro-oesophageal reflux, which causes acid to irritate the upper airways, may cause coughing. Less common lower respiratory infections, such as pneumonia, cause coughing and are more likely to result from bacterial infections. More worryingly, chronic cough can very rarely be an indicator of lung cancer or other tumours, or of tuberculosis (TB).

A mild cough, sore throat and runny nose is likely to be viral. If you’re otherwise well you should rest, drink plenty of fluids and try home remedies such as honey and lemon. The pharmacist can advise about cough syrups or sweets. Antibiotics won’t help viral respiratory tract infections. If you have a persistent fever, breathlessness or cough up blood you should talk to your GP.

Hair pulling