I have a cough, is this something serious?
There are many causes that lead to cough ranging from a simple allergy to serious conditions like pneumonia, lung cancer, fibrosis, pulmonary embolism etc. If you experience a cough that stays for longer than 2 weeks, visit a Chest Specialist/ Pulmonologist.
How do I know my cough is caused by a serious condition?
If your cough is associated with blood tinged sputum, shortness of breath, persistent fever, altered level of consciousness, low blood pressure, chest pain or low oxygen levels, they require urgent attention. A visit to the emergency room or your physician is recommended.
Does an acute cough more dangerous than chronic?
The duration and the severity of cough depends on the underlying cause. Usually it is the acute presentation associated with alarming sign and symptoms require urgent evaluation.
Condition causing acute cough that requires immediate attention are acute exacerbation of asthma, COPD, pneumonia, pulmonary embolism (clot in artery of lungs), pulmonary edema/heart failure and some autoimmune lungs diseases. If untreated these condition can cause severe complications that can lead to emergency visit and ICU admission for management.
Serious condition causing chronic cough are Lung cancer, bronchiectasis (associated with blood tinge sputum), and some autoimmune lungs diseases.