The NHS has issued guidance on when a cough may require urgent medical attention, as many people across the UK are already dealing with 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".
Home remedies and pharmacy options
If you are 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 book a GP appointment
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.
Seeking urgent care
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."
