When is a chronic cough a concern? +
A cough that lasts more than three weeks is generally classified as a chronic cough. While most short-term coughs are caused by viral infections and resolve on their own, a persistent cough may indicate an underlying condition that needs clinical evaluation.
Common causes include: post-nasal drip from allergies or sinusitis, cough-variant asthma, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and chronic bronchitis. Less commonly, a persistent cough may be related to interstitial lung disease, infections like tuberculosis, or other serious conditions.
When to seek evaluation: If your cough has persisted beyond three weeks, produces blood-tinged sputum, is accompanied by shortness of breath or weight loss, or disrupts your sleep — it is reasonable to consult a pulmonologist.
What is sleep apnoea and why does it matter? +
Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is a condition where the upper airway repeatedly collapses during sleep, causing brief pauses in breathing. These pauses can occur dozens or even hundreds of times per night.
Key symptoms: loud, habitual snoring; witnessed pauses in breathing; waking up gasping; excessive daytime sleepiness; morning headaches; difficulty concentrating.
Untreated OSA is associated with increased cardiovascular risk, including hypertension, heart disease, and stroke. Diagnosis typically involves a sleep study, and treatment options range from CPAP devices to surgical intervention.
Asthma triggers and when they need attention +
Asthma is a chronic condition characterised by airway inflammation and intermittent narrowing. While asthma cannot be cured, it can be well-controlled with appropriate management.
Common triggers: allergens (dust mites, pollen, pet dander), air pollution, cold air, respiratory infections, exercise, and strong odours.
When to seek review: If you use your reliever inhaler more than twice a week, wake at night due to cough, or if symptoms limit daily activities — your asthma may not be adequately controlled.
Snoring vs. sleep disorder: when to get evaluated +
Snoring is common and, in many cases, benign. However, snoring can also be the most visible symptom of obstructive sleep apnoea — a condition with real cardiovascular risks.
Simple snoring vs. sleep apnoea: Simple snoring is typically positional and not associated with daytime sleepiness. When snoring is loud, habitual, and accompanied by fatigue or observed breathing pauses, it raises the possibility of OSA.
When to see a pulmonologist after a chest infection +
Most chest infections resolve with treatment. However, some patients experience persistent respiratory symptoms weeks or months after the acute infection has cleared.
Symptoms that warrant evaluation: A lingering cough beyond 4–6 weeks, persistent breathlessness, reduced exercise tolerance, ongoing fatigue, or abnormal chest X-ray findings.
