When to see a doctor for a cough

When should you see a doctor about a cough? Learn the different types of cough, and when it’s time to see a doctor. 


Types of coughs

When to see a doctor about an acute cough

When to see a doctor about a subacute or chronic cough

When to see a doctor urgently



But how can you tell when it’s time to worry about a cough? The length of time you’ve had the cough often provides a clue.

## Types of coughs

A cough can be defined by how long it lasts. The different types are: 

* acute coughs - last for less than 3 weeks 
* subacute coughs - last for 3 to 8 weeks
* chronic coughs - last for more than 8 weeks

An acute cough is usually caused by a viral illness like the [common cold](/cold). It typically clears on its own after a couple of weeks. However, subacute and chronic coughs should always be assessed by a doctor.

Read about the [causes of each type of cough.](/health-library/symptoms/cough)


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## When to see a doctor about an acute cough

![computer-desk-laptop-stethoscope-48604](//images.ctfassets.net/iqo3fk8od6t9/31ASnqGEccBP1ZseipDK4A/5a1636500e0f0048886d6e8b4b7d6a76/computer-desk-laptop-stethoscope-48604.jpg)

An acute cough is usually caused by a viral infection of the nose, sinuses and/or throat (known as the upper respiratory tract). These are infections like a cold or the flu. But a cough can also be caused by infections or inflammation of the lungs and airways, such as [acute bronchitis](/bronchitis) or [pneumonia](/pneumonia). 

An acute cough can also be triggered by an allergy or a flare-up of a long-term condition like [asthma](/asthma). 

This type of cough can usually be [treated at home](/self-care/how-to-treat-a-cough-at-home) with plenty of rest and fluids. However, see a doctor if: 

* your cough is severe or getting worse, or you’re constantly coughing or have a hacking cough
* you feel very ill
* you have chest pain
* you are losing weight without trying to
* you have swollen glands (feel the side of your neck to check for swelling)
* you’re finding it difficult to breathe
* you have a weakened immune system (e.g. caused by chemotherapy or conditions like diabetes)

You should seek immediate medical help if you’re coughing up blood. 


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## When to see a doctor about a subacute or chronic cough

If you’ve had a cough for more than 3 weeks, see a doctor. Your cough may be caused by conditions, including: 

* [gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD)](/heartburn)
* smoking
* [chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)](/copd)
* [bronchiectasis](/lung-disease/bronchiectasis)
* postnasal drip
* certain medications
* [asthma](/asthma)

In rare cases, a persistent cough can be a sign of a more serious underlying condition.


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## When to see a doctor urgently

If you’re coughing up blood you should see a doctor urgently.

A cough is not usually anything to worry about, and should clear up on its own within 3 to 4 weeks. However, if you experience any of the concerning symptoms mentioned in this article or you’re worried about your cough, see a doctor. 


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References

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All of Healthily's articles undergo medical safety checks to verify that the information is medically safe. View more details in our <a href="/safety" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">safety page</a>, or read our <a href="/legal/editorial-policy-principles" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">editorial policy</a>.

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