When should I call my doctor about a chronic cough?

Call your doctor if you are:

  • Coughing up blood or phlegm.
  • Wheezing.
  • Running a fever (temperature greater than 101°F).
  • Losing weight without trying.
  • Having a drenching sweat overnight.

Last reviewed by a Cleveland Clinic medical professional on 03/09/2016.

References

  • National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. What Is Cough? Accessed 3/11/2016.
  • Chung KF, Widdicombe JG. Causes and Treatment of Acute and Chronic Cough. In: Mason, ed. Murray and Nadel's Textbook of Respiratory Medicine, 5th ed.; Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2010: Chapter 29.
  • Dweik RA. Cough – Etiology. In: Carey, WD, ed. Cleveland Clinic: Current Clinical Medicine 2010.2nd ed.; Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2010: section 12.
  • Kelkar P, Weldon D. Approach to the Patient with Chronic Cough. In: Adkinson FM, et al. Middleton's Allergy: Principles and Practice. 7th ed.; St. Louis: Mosby; 2008: Chapter 79.

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