Most coughs clear on their own within 3 to 4 weeks, although some can last longer depending on the cause. A cough after a cold or other infection can sometimes continue even after you otherwise feel better. A cough lasting more than 8 weeks is generally considered a chronic cough and should be assessed by a healthcare professional.
For professional advice, speak to Dr Nick Hamilton ENT about chronic cough treatment in London – email us at secretary@throatspecialist.co.uk or call us on 020 7034 6053.
Key Points
- Most short-term coughs clear within 3 to 4 weeks.
- Smoking, asthma, allergies and acid reflux can cause a cough that lasts longer.
- See a GP if your cough lasts more than 3 weeks or is severe, worsening or accompanied by other concerning symptoms.
Why can cause a bad or chronic cough?
A bad or chronic cough can have several causes, including:
- A cold or flu
- Bronchitis or another chest infection
- Asthma
- Acid reflux
- Allergies or hay fever
- Mucus dripping down the back of the throat
- Smoking
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Certain medicines, including some ACE inhibitors
- Irritation from smoke, dust or other airborne substances
Most coughs are caused by infections such as colds and flu, but a cough that continues for many weeks may have another underlying cause.
A chronic cough is generally defined as one that lasts longer than 8 weeks. Around 8–10% of adults are affected by chronic cough, according to North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust.
Why do some coughs take long to clear?
Some coughs take longer to clear because the airways can remain irritated after an infection has gone. The cough reflex can become more sensitive, meaning things such as cold air, talking, laughing or strong smells may trigger coughing.
A cough can also continue because the original cause has not been treated. For example, asthma, allergies, acid reflux or mucus draining from the nose can keep irritating the throat and airways.
Smoking can also make a cough last longer because smoke continually irritates the airways. If you continue to smoke while recovering from an infection, your cough may be slower to settle.
What can I do to make my cough clear quicker?
You can help your cough clear by resting, drinking plenty of fluids and avoiding smoke and other irritants. Most short-term coughs do not need specific treatment and improve naturally.
Warm drinks can help soothe an irritated throat. The NHS also suggests hot lemon and honey as an option for easing a cough, although there is limited evidence that these remedies shorten the illness itself. Honey should not be given to babies under 1 year old.
If you have pain or a temperature, paracetamol or ibuprofen may help if they are suitable for you. A pharmacist can also advise on cough medicines or cough sweets, although these may help you cough less rather than make the cough disappear.
If you smoke, stopping can also help reduce irritation and improve your cough over time.
See also: Remedies if you cannot stop coughing
What happens if my cough does not clear?
If your cough does not clear, the underlying cause may need to be investigated. A cough lasting more than 3 weeks is classed by the NHS as a persistent cough and should be discussed with a GP.
Your GP may ask how long you have been coughing, whether it is dry or produces phlegm, and whether you have other symptoms. They may listen to your chest and, depending on your symptoms, arrange tests such as a chest X-ray, allergy testing or lung function tests.
Sometimes a persistent cough needs treatment for the condition causing it rather than treatment for the cough itself. For example, asthma, reflux or allergies may need to be managed before the cough improves.
An ENT or Throat Specialist can provide further tests and discuss other treatments to help with chronic coughing.
When should I see a GP or specialist about my cough?
You should see a GP if your cough has lasted more than 3 weeks, keeps returning or is affecting your daily life. Your GP can assess the cause and decide whether you need further tests or referral to a specialist.
You should seek urgent medical advice if your cough is very bad or suddenly gets worse, you have chest pain, find it difficult to breathe, feel very unwell or cough up blood.
You should also speak to a GP if you are losing weight without trying or have other unexplained symptoms. Specialist assessment may be needed when a cough continues for a long time or when an underlying lung or other health condition is suspected.
In most cases, a cough will gradually improve without treatment. However, if it continues beyond the expected 3 to 4 weeks, it is worth getting medical advice rather than simply waiting for it to disappear.
