Having a cold or the flu during winter isn’t uncommon. But there is one symptom people are being warned to never dismiss as it could mean something isn’t right. Dr Shireen, an NHS GP, took to TikTok with an issue that might seem minor to some – but should never be ignored if it goes on for a certain period of time.

According to the NHS website, there’s usually no need to see a GP if you have a cough. Most cases clear up within a few weeks using nothing more than rest and self-treatment.

But for those that don’t, it might be worth booking an appointment. Dr Shireen said: “There is one thing I wish everyone knew about coughs – and it’s really simple. If you’ve had a persistant cough for more than three weeks, you need to see a doctor.

“There are lots of different things that can cause a chronic cough like asthma, reflux, respiratory tract infection. But, it is also important that we rule out things like lung cancer.”

Lung cancer is the third most common cancer in the UK. Around 49,200 people are diagnosed in the UK each year, according to Cancer Research.

It’s more common in men than women, with older people most affected (those over 70), but it can strike at any age. More than 60% of cases are caused by smoking, but other factors can increase the risk – such as exposure to certain chemicals in the workplace or having a family history of lung cancer.

A cough that lasts more than three weeks can be worrisome, as it may signal a more serious health condition such as asthma, acid reflux (GERD), postnasal drip, chronic bronchitis, or even lung cancer, rather than just a common cold that typically clears up in a week or two. Additionally, a prolonged cough can irritate the airways and might result in further complications, so it’s a good idea to consult a healthcare professional if your cough continues for an extended time.

Dr Shireen added: “If someone has a persistent cough, what we [as doctors] usually do is first examine them and send them for a chest x-ray. It’s a really quick, easy test that we can do to look at someone’s lungs and make sure nothing is going on there that we need to be concerned about.”

If you’re struggling with a cough, there are a few very easy ways to help your body fight off the disease that’s causing it. You should get some rest and drink plenty of fluids. You could also take paracetamol or ibuprofen to treat pain.

However, medication may not be ideal for everyone, which is why the NHS has a natural backup solution you can try as well. A hot lemon and honey brew could help soothe your sore throat caused by persistent coughing. To make a batch, squeeze half a lemon into a mug of boiled water and mix in one or two teaspoons of honey.

If you have any concerns over a persistent cough that lasts more than three weeks, book an appointment with a doctor as soon as you can.

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