Lingering Cough? Here’s Why It Could Signal Something Serious

A cough is usually seen as a minor irritation and often linked to seasonal infections or allergies. However, if it does not go away even after weeks, experts believe it may be a sign of the emergence of something

more serious. Even though you may ignore it with the hope that it will go away on its own, a continuous cough requires closer attention. Dr Davinder Kundra, Consultant, Pulmonology, HCMCT Manipal Hospital, told Times Now that there are many reasons why a cough may not leave, which include:

• Sometimes, it can be linked to postnasal drip, asthma, or acid reflux, which continues to irritate the throat even after the initial infection.
• It may be a sign of chronic bronchitis, pneumonia, or tuberculosis.
• Lifestyle factors like long-term exposure to smoke, pollution, dust, or chemicals contribute to the problem of coughing, which can also lead to chronic respiratory issues, with smoking being the most significant risk factor.

“A continuous cough can be one of the earliest warning signs of lung cancer in more concerning cases,” he said. Lung cancer mostly develops silently, with symptoms appearing only in advanced stages. A persistent, unexplained cough accompanied by blood-tinged sputum, chest discomfort, hoarseness, or unexplained weight loss can be one of the earliest warning signs. If discovered early, treatment options such as lobectomy, which is surgery to remove a portion of the lung, may be recommended. Improved medical care has also been introduced, including minimally invasive surgeries and targeted therapies, which enhance recovery rates and success.

Types of coughs

You might have a dry, nonproductive cough - without mucus, or a wet, productive cough - with mucus. A cough might be barky or end with a whoop - a sign of whooping cough. Experts believe it may also come on suddenly and go away within a few weeks. Or it might seem like it’s been going on forever and will never go away (chronic cough).

Why is it important to see a doctor?

According to Dr Kundra, if your cough lasts longer than three weeks, it is imperative that you seek professional advice rather than self-medicating or waiting it out. While many causes are treatable, there is a need to identify the problem early.

Early detection

A persistent or worsening cough can be an early sign of lung cancer, which is why paying attention to these signs is critical.

High-risk factors

If you are at a higher risk for lung cancer, it is especially important to get screened and evaluated by a doctor if you notice a new or worsening cough.

Severe symptoms

If you experience chest pain, fainting, or have difficulty breathing, seek immediate medical attention by calling emergency services or going to the emergency department.

Timely evaluation

Any amount of blood in your phlegm, even streaky blood, needs to be looked into promptly by a doctor.