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A cough that lasts longer than a few days is frequently considered a harmless result of changing seasons, allergies, or a temporary virus. However, specialists caution that this relaxed attitude may sometimes lead to significant issues. “A lasting cough can indicate much more than just a common seasonal issue from the weather,” states Dr Praveen Kumar B S, Consultant in Pulmonology at Manipal Hospital Yeshwanthpur, Bengaluru. While many situations are harmless, some may indicate more serious respiratory problems like chronic bronchitis, tuberculosis, interstitial lung disease, or even early lung cancer. Dr John Muchahary, Consultant in Interventional Pulmonology at Manipal Hospital, Goa, adds, “A cough that lasts for over eight weeks in adults is classified as chronic and should not be overlooked, as it could be an early warning of hidden illnesses, including lung cancer or interstitial lung disease.”
Recognizing when a cough is merely a seasonal issue and when it serves as a warning sign can be crucial for timely action and proper diagnosis. Dr Muchahary mentions that any cough lasting more than two weeks, especially when accompanied by tiredness, weight loss, breathing difficulties, chest pain, or hoarseness, should lead to a doctor's assessment. “Self-assessment and postponing medical visits are common in areas where coughing is often linked to pollution or infections,” he stresses, emphasizing that timely tests like chest X-rays or spirometry can uncover serious problems before they worsen. For long-term smokers, a persistent cough can signal important health risks. “A cough lasting more than three weeks in chronic smokers should be evaluated for lung cancer,” notes Dr Praveen Kumar. Warning signs include alterations in the cough's characteristics, shortness of breath, chest discomfort, coughing up blood, hoarseness, weight loss, or reduced appetite.
The most effective way to find lung cancer early is through low-dose computed tomography (LDCT). “In an LDCT scan, you lie down, and an X-ray machine uses a small amount of radiation to create detailed images of your lungs,” explains Dr Praveen Kumar. The scan is quick and painless, taking just a few minutes. Screening is usually advised for individuals aged 50 to 80 who have a history of smoking for 20 pack-years or more and currently smoke or have quit in the last 15 years. A cough serves as your body’s signal that something may be wrong – and when it doesn't go away, it's something you shouldn’t overlook. Although seasonal changes, allergies, and pollution may often be the reasons, ongoing symptoms might indicate more severe health issues that require prompt medical attention. Early identification, mainly for those at higher risk like smokers, can be vital for saving lives.
