NHS explains when a cough means you should seek urgent attention

NHS explains when a cough means you should seek urgent attention Most coughs are nothing to worry about, but the NHS has guidance for when to get medical help The NHS has outlined when a cough may require urgent medical attention, as many Brits are already battling so-called winter bugs. Most coughs will resolve themselves within a few weeks and you can typically manage a cough at home with rest, plenty of fluids, and paracetamol and ibuprofen, if these painkillers are appropriate for you. There is generally no need to visit a GP if you have a cough, and NHS guidance advises you should attempt to remain at home and avoid contact with others "if you have a high temperature or you do not feel well enough to do your normal activities". If you're experiencing a cough you can also try hot lemon and honey, though honey is unsuitable for babies under one year old. You can also purchase cough syrup, cough medicine or cough sweets from a pharmacist. When to seek medical attention The NHS advises you should book a GP appointment if you have a persistent cough, which is the term used for a cough lasting three weeks or more. You should also consult a doctor if you have a cough and are losing weight unintentionally, or if you have a weakened immune system. You should seek an "urgent" appointment or call NHS 111 if: - you're coughing up blood - you feel very unwell - your cough is very bad or quickly gets worse – for example, you have a hacking cough or cannot stop coughing - the side of your neck feels swollen and painful (swollen glands) - you have chest pain - you find it hard to breathe To determine the root cause of your cough, your GP may listen to your chest using a stethoscope, arrange an X-ray, allergy test, or a test to assess how well your lungs function, and take a sample of any mucus you may be coughing up. In rare cases, you could be referred to a hospital specialist. Most coughs are triggered by a cold or flu, though other common causes include acid reflux, smoking or vaping, allergies, mucus, and infections such as bronchitis or Covid. NHS guidance states: "A cough is rarely a sign of something serious like lung cancer."