Breathlessness, blood, chest pain or a persistent cough are important signs.
A cough can linger after a viral infection. If it worsens, lasts several weeks or comes with blood, breathlessness, persistent fever, weight loss or chest pain, it should be assessed. Do not wait for a routine appointment if breathing is severely difficult.
Medical principle
Breathing symptoms can result from infection, allergy, asthma, heart problems or environmental factors. Onset, triggers, fever, wheezing and limits on activity are important to assessment.
Practical steps that may help
- Avoid smoke and known triggers and maintain adequate ventilation.
- Practise correct inhaler technique with a doctor or pharmacist; incorrect technique reduces treatment benefit.
- Record cough duration, fever, sputum, wheezing and links with seasons or surroundings.
When should you seek medical care?
Severe or sudden breathlessness, blue colouring, inability to speak a full sentence, chest pain, coughing blood or reduced awareness require an immediate call to local emergency services.
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