persistent cough for weeks
A persistent cough lasting several weeks requires clinical evaluation to identify the underlying cause and rule out chronic respiratory conditions.
Possible causes
- 01
Post-nasal drip
commonExcess mucus from allergies or sinus issues drips down the back of the throat, triggering a chronic cough reflex.
- 02
Cough-variant asthma
possibleA type of asthma where the main symptom is a dry, persistent cough, often worsened by cold air or exercise.
- 03
Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD)
possibleStomach acid flows back into the food pipe, irritating the airways and triggering a chronic cough.
Recommended tests
GP consultation
→30–60 minute consultation with a British-trained GP — clinic, home or video.
Why: A thorough clinical history and chest examination are essential first steps to guide further investigation.
Full body blood test
→80+ marker screen — CBC, thyroid, liver, kidney, iron, vitamin D, HbA1c, lipids, hormones.
Why: Helps check for underlying infection, inflammation, or allergies contributing to chronic airway irritation.
When to worry
- Coughing up blood or rust-coloured phlegm
- Unexplained weight loss or night sweats
- New or worsening shortness of breath or chest pain
- A persistent cough lasting longer than 3 to 4 weeks
Sources & guidelines
This triage is grounded in mainstream clinical guidance. Every case is reviewed in person by a British-trained GP before any diagnosis or prescription.
- NICE: Cough (acute): antimicrobial prescribing (NG120)
- NHS: Chest infections and chronic cough guidelines
Related
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This page is educational triage information only. It is not a medical diagnosis and does not replace a consultation with a licensed doctor. Aafiyah Care Clinic — Unit G09, Churchill Executive Towers, Business Bay, Dubai. DHA-licensed.
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"Called at 8am with a fever, had a British-trained doctor at my door by 11. He sat with me for 45 minutes — not the 5 minutes I'm used to. Prescription delivered same day. Felt like having a proper GP again."
"We finally have one doctor who knows all of us. The kids actually like going. Follow-up calls happen without us chasing. Worth every dirham."
"The 40+ marker report came back with a real conversation, not a PDF dumped in my inbox. Caught a vitamin deficiency I'd been ignoring for years."
"After surgery I dreaded going back to a hospital for dressings. Their nurse came every other day, the doctor checked in by WhatsApp. Healed faster than I expected."
"Fell ill on day two of our trip. Doctor in the suite within 90 minutes, full assessment, prescription to the hotel pharmacy. Genuinely NHS-standard care in Dubai."
"My father refuses to leave the house. Aafiyah's team comes monthly, manages his medication, and treats him with such dignity. It changed everything for our family."
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