Adult chronic cough: What to expect during assessment and follow-up 

Being able to identify when your cough is considered chronic is important as it can be a sign of something more. Recognising the signs early and making the effort to see a GP for an appointment as soon as possible is a powerful step in helping you stay on top of your health.  

This factsheet from Lung Foundation Australia provides a comprehensive guide to understanding chronic cough in adults, navigating medical assessments, and speak up for your health during GP visits by giving you a list of questions to ask your GP. 

Coughing is a natural reflex, but when it doesn’t go away, it can cause exhaustion, sleep disruption, stress, and social discomfort. It may worsen existing conditions, trigger pain or incontinence, and signal underlying issues like lung disease, reflux, heart problems, infections, or neurological disorders requiring medical attention. 

The factsheet outlines a five-step approach to managing a cough that doesn’t go away: 

• Speak with your GP: If your cough lasts longer than eight weeks, book an appointment. You can prepare for your appointment by writing down your symptoms and bringing someone to support you. 

• Completing recommended tests: Essential investigations include a chest X-ray and lung-function tests (spirometry). Additional tests may include CT scans, allergy assessments, nose and throat examinations, and gastrointestinal checks. 

• Identify the cause: An ongoing cough can stem from various sources such as sinusitis, occupational irritants, medications, reflux, infections, or lung conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). 

• Discuss treatment options: Your GP may suggest lifestyle changes, self-management techniques, medications, or referrals to specialists. 

• Follow up: Ongoing care is crucial. Schedule follow-up appointments to monitor progress and adjust treatment as needed. 

Whether your cough is linked to a known condition or remains unexplained, early assessment and personalised treatment can make a meaningful and lasting difference to your overall wellbeing.