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When to Worry About a Cough: Red Flag Symptoms
Key Information
- Most Coughs: Most coughs get better on their own with simple home care.
- The Red Flags: Some warning signs mean you should not wait for the cough to go away on its own. You need professional medical advice.
When to Contact the Surgery
Please contact us for an appointment if you experience any of the following:
- Duration: Your cough has lasted for more than 3 weeks and is not getting better.
- General Health: You are feeling very unwell.
- Neck Glands: You have swollen glands in your neck.
- Weight: You have lost weight for no clear reason.
When to Seek Urgent Help
You should ask for an urgent GP appointment or contact NHS 111 when we are closed if:
- You have chest pain.
- You are coughing up blood.
When to Call 999
You must call 999 or go to A&E immediately if:
- You are having difficulty breathing.
What Happens Next?
If you have any of these red flag symptoms, please do not wait. Click the link below or call NHS 111. If you need to see us, we will investigate the cause.
Further Information
- Understanding What Causes a Cough
- Treating a Cough at Home
- The 8-Week Rule: Understanding Chronic Coughs
- Your Cough Appointment: What to Expect
To learn more about coughs and what causes them, please visit the NHS website.
Last reviewed: 30 December 2025
Next review due: 30 December 2028
Providing NHS Services
Telephone: 01727 853107