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A cough is often dismissed as a harmless seasonal symptom linked to a change in weather, allergies or a common cold. However, when a cough persists for more than three weeks, it may be more than just a seasonal irritant; it could be an early warning sign of underlying lung damage or a chronic illness. Recognising these red flags early can make a crucial difference in timely diagnosis and treatment.

In a conversation with The Daily Jagran, Dr. Vikas Mittal, Director – Pulmonologist at the CK Birla Hospital, Delhi explained the early signs of lung damage.

Is It Just a Cough or Lung Damage?

One of the biggest indicators of concern is persistent sputum production, especially if the sputum contains blood. A chronic cough accompanied by breathlessness or a wheezing sound from the chest should not be taken lightly. These symptoms may point to conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or long-term irritation of the airways due to air pollution and smoking. In some cases, a prolonged cough can also signal infections like tuberculosis or rarer illnesses such as interstitial lung disease. Even sinusitis or certain blood pressure medications can contribute to chronic coughing but ignoring the symptom delays proper evaluation.

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A particularly alarming sign is blood in the sputum which must be investigated immediately. This could be a manifestation of serious infections or other underlying lung conditions that require urgent attention. Experts advise that anyone experiencing a cough lasting beyond three weeks should seek medical evaluation from a pulmonologist.

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Diagnostic steps usually include a chest X-ray, sputum testing (especially to rule out tuberculosis), and in some cases, a lung function test. Early detection of the root cause allows for better management and prevents irreversible lung damage.