A doctor is warning people to never ignore a specific cold symptom if it lingers for too long.
While symptoms like a runny nose, sneezing, and coughing are common, especially in winter, it’s a red flag if they persist.
According to Dr. Shireen, there’s one symptom in particular that shouldn’t be overlooked if it lasts three weeks or more.
Dr. Shireen, who shares medical advice with her 24,000+ TikTok followers, has explained when it’s time to book an appointment with your GP.
Dr. Shireen emphasized the importance of recognizing when a cough becomes a cause for concern.
“There is one thing I wish everyone knew about coughs, it’s really simple. If you’ve had a persistent cough for more than three weeks, you need to see a doctor,” she explained.
She noted that chronic coughs can stem from various causes, including asthma, acid reflux, and respiratory infections. However, she stressed the need to rule out more serious conditions like lung cancer.
“If someone has a persistent cough, we usually start by examining them and sending them for a chest X-ray. It’s a quick and easy test that helps us check for any underlying lung issues,” Dr. Shireen added.
While an occasional cough is normal, Mayo Clinic warns that a cough lasting several weeks or one that produces discolored or bloody mucus could indicate a more serious condition requiring medical attention.
Similarly, the NHS advises that anyone experiencing a persistent cough alongside unexplained weight loss or a weakened immune system (due to conditions like chemotherapy or diabetes) should consult their GP.
Dr. Malathy Munisamy previously told The Mirror that most standard coughs typically resolve on their own within a couple of weeks and are usually harmless.
If a cough is caused by a cold or flu, which often comes with symptoms like sneezing, headaches, muscle aches, and fever, Dr. Munisamy recommends rest, staying hydrated, and using over-the-counter treatments such as paracetamol, ibuprofen, or cold relief medication for effective symptom management.
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The Cleveland Clinic reassures that coughing is often not a cause for concern and can actually be beneficial.
“Having a cough often means nothing serious. It’s normal (and helpful) to cough in certain situations, as it helps clear irritants from your throat and airways, making it easier to breathe,” they explain.
However, they advise seeking medical attention if a cough is accompanied by symptoms like difficulty breathing, fever, trouble eating or sleeping, or coughing up bloody or discolored sputum.
For young children, since they can’t always express how they feel, the clinic suggests contacting a healthcare provider if a child has a fever with a cough or if their cough sounds uncomfortable or concerning.
