Coughing is a reflex action that clears mucus, irritants and allergens (such as dust, smoke, or pollen) from your airways.
Your cough may be dry, with a tickling or itching sensation, and without any phlegm (thick mucus). Unlike a ‘dry cough’, a ‘chesty cough’ will present with phlegm in the lungs. Your cough may be due to an underlying condition (asthma, allergies, and environmental irritants are regular culprits of an ongoing or persistent cough). A cough is also a common symptom of the influenza virus, a chest infection, or the common cold.
Depending on the doctor’s assessment, you may be referred to a specialist for diagnosis. Tests that may be recommended include chest x-rays, phlegm analysis, allergy testing, and measurement of your lung capacity. A proper diagnosis will determine the mode of treatment. It is best to follow a doctor’s advice with regard to treatment rather than managing symptoms at home.
There are symptoms that it is important to be aware of with regard to a cough – if you are coughing up blood, feel pain in your chest, or are noticing shortness of breath, we advise you to make an appointment to come and see us as soon as possible.
Other symptoms which are more unusual but which can indicate a serious underlying condition include;
Shorter-term coughs with milder symptoms can be caused by:
Long-term or more persistent coughs can be caused by:
In rare cases, persistent cough can be a symptom of more serious conditions like lung cancer, heart failure, pulmonary embolism, or tuberculosis.
It is only in rare cases that a cough is caused by a serious condition, but we recommend that you come in to get it checked out and receive a proper diagnosis, particularly if it has gone on for a long time or if you experience chest pain or are coughing up blood.
We work with experienced consultants & healthcare professionals who have received positive feedback from our patients, and with whom we have established long-term relationships.
Use our online booking engine or book your test by giving us a call.
On the online booking engine select the “appointment type” you need.
You will be seen by one of our friendly doctors or trained clinicians.
Latest Episode
Tune in to our podcast to explore the world of healthcare and learn from distinguished special guests. We cover everything from preventative measures to cutting-edge treatments so that you can stay informed and up-to-date on health-related things.
Subscribe for latest updates & news
From same-day private GP and blood test appointments to visa medicals, a sexual and reproductive health clinic, and preventative health screenings, we are here to help.
Links
Accepted Insurance Companies
Please note that Walk-in Clinic is a private medical centre & not an NHS service. City Walk-in Clinic Ltd company registration no. 07472804
