Chronic Cough

Types of chronic coughs

In adults

If you have a cough that lasts longer than 8 weeks it is a good idea to talk with your GP to make sure it isn’t the sign of something else going on. Learn more about chronic cough, questions to ask your GP, initial tests and follow-up.

Not all coughs are equal. Chronic cough can stem from a wide range of causes. Treatment should be based on the specific cause of your cough, and may include lifestyle changes, prescription medications, other therapies.

A cough that won’t go away can be physically exhausting and socially isolating. Alongside your doctor’s treatment, take control and manage your cough. Use these simple tips to manage your cough, support your mental wellbeing, and know what to avoid.

In children

If your child has a cough that lasts longer than 4 weeks it is a good idea to talk with their GP. At the appointment discuss your child’s medical history, what their cough sounds like and any other related symptoms. Many children may have a chronic cough without other signs or symptoms. 

If your child has a wet cough it may be a sign they have excess mucus in their airways. A dry cough is usually because there is irritation or inflammation in the airways. 

Chronic wet cough in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children

Chronic wet cough disproportionately affects Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children. If left untreated, a chronic wet cough can lead to chronic lung sickness. It is important to take your child to the clinic if they have had a cough for more than four weeks to see if they have a lung infection, and if they need antibiotics. 

For health professionals

Chronic cough is one of the most common symptoms for people seeking medical care. It’s important to investigate a chronic cough and make sure it isn’t a symptom of an underlying condition. 
View our clinical algorithms for diagnosis of adults and children.

Accredited training

Learn more about lung health in First Nations children to support health professionals working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families. This free, accredited training course focuses on:

• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander pediatric lung health 
• Skills required to engage with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families
• Ways of providing culturally secure care to address the respiratory health of children