🕷️ Crawler Inspector

URL Lookup

Direct Parameter Lookup

Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 120 (from laksa017)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa120.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/chronic-cough/symptoms-diagnosis\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/chronic-cough/symptoms-diagnosis\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/www.lung.org\/lung-health-diseases\/lung-disease-lookup\/chronic-cough\/symptoms-diagnosis","crawl_time":1776368694,"first_indexed_time":1590303432,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"org,lung!www,\/lung-health-diseases\/lung-disease-lookup\/chronic-cough\/symptoms-diagnosis s443","src_root_hash":"12972902985515685920","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"Chronic Cough Symptoms and Diagnosis | American Lung Association","meta_descriptions":["It's important to keep in mind that a chronic cough lasts eight weeks or longer because this threshold makes it less likely that the cough is caused by a respiratory infection or common cold."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"A chronic cough lasts eight weeks or longer because this threshold makes it less likely that the cough is caused by a respiratory infection or common cold. You may also experience cough spasms which are sometimes called “spells,” “fits” or “bouts.” These are sudden, often intense and uncontrollable coughing episodes that may last several minutes. These coughing spells may cause physical symptoms such as chest pain, vomiting, difficulty breathing or bladder leakage.\nMay Be a Symptom of Another Disease\nAlternatively, a chronic cough could be a symptom of a lung disease that hasn't yet been diagnosed by your healthcare provider. Your healthcare provider will work with you to take a thorough history and physical exam to attempt to identify the cause of your chronic cough. \nIt is important to understand that a chronic cough can also be a sign of a disease not related to the lung at all.  Your healthcare provider may have you evaluated by other specialists besides a lung doctor.  This could include an allergist, an ear, nose and throat specialist (ENT), heart doctor (cardiologist) or an esophagus\/stomach specialist.\nWhen to see your healthcare provider\nA cough that lasts less than eight weeks is usually caused by a respiratory infection and will go away on its own.\nIf you have developed a cough of any kind that goes on for longer than eight weeks, you should see your healthcare provider for a thorough exam to determine what is causing it.\nHow Is Chronic Cough Diagnosed?\nTo identify the cause of your chronic cough, your healthcare provider will ask questions about your medical history, do a physical exam and run some tests. Learn more about diagnosing a chronic cough.\nMedical history\nYour healthcare provider will most likely ask you several questions about your cough, overall health and activities:\nDiagnostic tests\nYour healthcare provider may order tests. Some diagnostic tests may need to be completed by a specialist besides your primary health care provider. The tests ordered may include:\nChest X-ray\n: Quick and easy chest picture\nBlood sample: To see if your body is fighting an infection or if there are signs of allergies\nCT scan of the chest\n: A better-quality picture of the chest\nThroat swab: Usually done with a long cotton swab\nPhlegm or sputum sample: Collected after a deep cough\nLung function tests\n: Are a series of tests that can tell how well your lungs are working. The most common lung function test is\nspirometry\n.\nMethacholine challenge test\n: A breathing test often used to diagnose or rule out asthma\nReviewed and approved by the American Lung Association Scientific and Medical Editorial Review Panel.\nPage last updated: February 2, 2026","attrs_markdown":"[Skip to main content](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/lung-health-diseases\/lung-disease-lookup\/chronic-cough\/symptoms-diagnosis#main)\n\n[![American Lung Association Logo](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/Content\/images\/header-logo.svg)](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/)  [Donate](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/donate)\n\nSearch Close\n\nMenuClose\n\n[Call the Lung HelpLine]()\n\n[Ask a Question](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/support-community\/lung-helpline-and-tobacco-quitline) [Live Chat]()\n\n- [Events](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/get-involved\/events)\n- [Shop](https:\/\/shop.lung.org\/ala_shop\/shop\/home)\n- [Blog](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/blog)\n- [LUNG FORCE](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/lung-force)\n- [Help & Support](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/help-support)\n- [Login](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/signin)\n\nThe following text field filters the results that follow as you type. Use Tab to access the results.\n\nTranslate\n\nChange Location  ENG\n\n[Call the Lung HelpLine]()\n\n[Ask a Question](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/support-community\/lung-helpline-and-tobacco-quitline) [Live Chat]()\n\n- [Lung Health & Diseases](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/lung-health-diseases)\n  - Close Megamenu\n  - [Lung Health & Diseases](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/lung-health-diseases)\n  - - [Lung Health & Wellness](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/lung-health-diseases\/wellness)\n      - [Protecting Your Lungs](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/lung-health-diseases\/wellness\/protecting-your-lungs)\n      - [Vaccines](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/lung-health-diseases\/wellness\/vaccines)\n      - [Breathing Exercises](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/lung-health-diseases\/wellness\/breathing-exercises)\n    - [How Lungs Work](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/lung-health-diseases\/how-lungs-work)\n      - [Lung Capacity and Aging](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/lung-health-diseases\/how-lungs-work\/lung-capacity-and-aging)\n    - [Warning Signs of Lung Disease](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/lung-health-diseases\/warning-signs-of-lung-disease)\n  - - [Lung Disease Lookup](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/lung-health-diseases\/lung-disease-lookup)\n      - [Asthma](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/lung-health-diseases\/lung-disease-lookup\/asthma)\n      - [COPD](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/lung-health-diseases\/lung-disease-lookup\/copd)\n      - [COVID-19](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/lung-health-diseases\/lung-disease-lookup\/covid-19)\n      - [Flu](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/lung-health-diseases\/lung-disease-lookup\/influenza)\n      - [Lung Cancer](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/lung-health-diseases\/lung-disease-lookup\/lung-cancer)\n      - [Pneumonia](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/lung-health-diseases\/lung-disease-lookup\/pneumonia)\n      - [Pulmonary Fibrosis](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/lung-health-diseases\/lung-disease-lookup\/pulmonary-fibrosis)\n      - [View More](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/lung-health-diseases\/lung-disease-lookup)\n  - - [Lung Procedures, Tests, & Treatments](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/lung-health-diseases\/lung-procedures-and-tests)\n      - [Lung Function Tests](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/lung-health-diseases\/lung-procedures-and-tests\/lung-function-tests)\n      - 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[Chronic Cough](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/lung-health-diseases\/lung-disease-lookup\/chronic-cough)\n5. [Chronic Cough Symptoms and Diagnosis](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/lung-health-diseases\/lung-disease-lookup\/chronic-cough\/symptoms-diagnosis)\n\n# Chronic Cough Symptoms and Diagnosis\n- [Facebook](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/#facebook)\n- [Twitter](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/#twitter)\n- [LinkedIn](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/#linkedin)\n- [Email](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/#email)\n- [Print](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/#print)\n\n![Man coughing into tissue at his desk](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/optimize\/getmedia\/7b9e9758-70b0-432e-8aab-548d1c8bab15\/chronic-cough-symptoms_D.jpg?width=1200&height=800&ext=.jpg&format=webp) ![Man coughing into tissue at his desk]()\n\nSection Menu\n\n[Chronic Cough](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/lung-health-diseases\/lung-disease-lookup\/chronic-cough)\n\n- [Learn About Chronic Cough](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/lung-health-diseases\/lung-disease-lookup\/chronic-cough\/learn-about-chronic-cough)\n- [Chronic Cough Symptoms and Diagnosis](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/lung-health-diseases\/lung-disease-lookup\/chronic-cough\/symptoms-diagnosis)\n- [Treating and Managing Chronic Cough](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/lung-health-diseases\/lung-disease-lookup\/chronic-cough\/treating-and-managing)\n- [Newly Diagnosed](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/lung-health-diseases\/lung-disease-lookup\/chronic-cough\/newly-diagnosed)\n- [Chronic Cough Resources and Videos](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/lung-health-diseases\/lung-disease-lookup\/chronic-cough\/chronic-cough-resources)\n- [Chronic Cough Quiz](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/lung-health-diseases\/lung-disease-lookup\/chronic-cough\/chronic-cough-quiz)\n\nA chronic cough lasts eight weeks or longer because this threshold makes it less likely that the cough is caused by a respiratory infection or common cold. You may also experience cough spasms which are sometimes called “spells,” “fits” or “bouts.” These are sudden, often intense and uncontrollable coughing episodes that may last several minutes. These coughing spells may cause physical symptoms such as chest pain, vomiting, difficulty breathing or bladder leakage.\n\n[![Woman with blonde hair facing the camera](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/optimize\/getmedia\/85f2c2bb-09ae-4447-b770-d3b19ddba717\/chronic-cough.jpg?format=webp)  iframe video](https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/R7rZIV6mQ3c)\n\nChronic cough isn’t contagious and it can’t always be linked as a symptom to any other disease.\n\n[Watch Video](https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/R7rZIV6mQ3c)\n\nTranscript\n\nI quit going to yoga class because of it. Yoga's supposed to be this peaceful experience. But then my cough would start. People would look at me irritated like I was contagious. But I'm not. My doctors don't know what's going on. I just can't stop coughing.\n\nIf you've experienced a similar cough, learn about chronic cough and how you might be affected by taking our quiz at Lung.org.\n\n## May Be a Symptom of Another Disease\nAlternatively, a chronic cough could be a symptom of a lung disease that hasn't yet been diagnosed by your healthcare provider. Your healthcare provider will work with you to take a thorough history and physical exam to attempt to identify the cause of your chronic cough.\n\nIt is important to understand that a chronic cough can also be a sign of a disease not related to the lung at all. Your healthcare provider may have you evaluated by other specialists besides a lung doctor. This could include an allergist, an ear, nose and throat specialist (ENT), heart doctor (cardiologist) or an esophagus\/stomach specialist.\n\n### When to see your healthcare provider\nA cough that lasts less than eight weeks is usually caused by a respiratory infection and will go away on its own.  \nIf you have developed a cough of any kind that goes on for longer than eight weeks, you should see your healthcare provider for a thorough exam to determine what is causing it.\n\n## Questions about Your Chronic Cough\nTalk with our experts at the American Lung Association Lung HelpLine. Our service is free and we are here to help you by phone, web chat or email.\n\n[Visit the Helpline](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/help-support\/lung-helpline)\n\nIf you are experiencing a fever, shortness of breath, drenching night sweat, coughing up blood, unexplained weight loss, wheezing, hoarseness or trouble swallowing along with your cough, discuss these symptoms with your healthcare provider or seek urgent medical treatment.\n\n[CTA](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/lung-health-diseases\/lung-disease-lookup\/chronic-cough\/symptoms-diagnosis)\n\n[![Dr. Albert Rizzo](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/optimize\/getmedia\/d8abde39-fade-4338-bc52-24ee6bc7df29\/chronic-cough-video-2.jpg?format=webp)  iframe video](https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/iGrAdIpPgdY?si=TLRIC191hnUKk5PM)\n\nA cough is considered chronic if it lasts eight weeks, and often it lasts much longer. And it often doesn’t respond to treatment.\n\n[Watch Video](https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/iGrAdIpPgdY?si=TLRIC191hnUKk5PM)\n\nTranscript\n\nChronic cough can impact my patients' entire lives: lack of sleep, social stigma, concern over a misdiagnosis. A cough is considered chronic if it lasts 8 weeks, and often it lasts much longer. It can't always be linked as a symptom to any other disease, and it often doesn't respond to treatment.\n\nIf you've experienced a similar cough, learn about chronic cough and how you might be affected by taking our quiz at Lung.org.\n\n## How Is Chronic Cough Diagnosed?\nTo identify the cause of your chronic cough, your healthcare provider will ask questions about your medical history, do a physical exam and run some tests. Learn more about diagnosing a chronic cough.\n\n#### Medical history\nYour healthcare provider will most likely ask you several questions about your cough, overall health and activities:\n\nAbout Your Cough\n\n- *When did your cough start?*\n- *Does your cough bring up mucus?*\n- *If there is mucus, what's the consistency and color? Is there any blood?*\n- *Are there any specific triggers to your cough? (weather, air quality, mealtimes, bedtime, exposures)*\n- *What are the treatments or ways you alleviate your cough? (over the counter medications, throat lozenges, water, etc.)*\n\nAbout Your Activities\n\n- *Have you had any changes in your home or other indoor environments (new carpeting, heating or air conditioning system, new pets, etc.)?*\n- *Do you have any allergies, sinus issues or have postnasal drip?*\n- *What do you do for a living? What is your workplace like? (dusty, damp, cold, etc.)*\n- *What do you do during your time off? Have you recently traveled?*\n- *Do you use tobacco products (cigarettes, cigars, a pipe or e-cigarettes) or marijuana? Do you use recreational drugs?*\n\nAbout Your Overall Health\n\n- *Have you been in close contact with anyone who has similar symptoms or a known respiratory infection such as common cold, tuberculosis, pneumonia or whooping cough?*\n- *Do you have any medical illnesses or chronic diseases?*\n- *Do you have trouble swallowing?*\n- *Do you have trouble with indigestion or heartburn?*\n- *Have you started on any new medications recently?*\n\n#### Diagnostic tests\nYour healthcare provider may order tests. Some diagnostic tests may need to be completed by a specialist besides your primary health care provider. The tests ordered may include:\n\n- [Chest X-ray](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/lung-health-diseases\/lung-procedures-and-tests\/chest-x-ray): Quick and easy chest picture\n- Blood sample: To see if your body is fighting an infection or if there are signs of allergies\n- [CT scan of the chest](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/lung-health-diseases\/lung-procedures-and-tests\/ct-scan): A better-quality picture of the chest\n- Throat swab: Usually done with a long cotton swab\n- Phlegm or sputum sample: Collected after a deep cough\n- [Lung function tests](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/lung-health-diseases\/lung-procedures-and-tests\/lung-function-tests): Are a series of tests that can tell how well your lungs are working. The most common lung function test is [spirometry](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/lung-health-diseases\/lung-procedures-and-tests\/spirometry).\n- [Methacholine challenge test](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/lung-health-diseases\/lung-procedures-and-tests\/methacholine-challenge-test): A breathing test often used to diagnose or rule out asthma\n\n## Questions about Your Chronic Cough?\nTalk with our experts at the American Lung Association Lung HelpLine. Our service is free and we are here to help you by phone, web chat or email.\n\n[Visit the Helpline](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/help-support\/lung-helpline)\n\n[Previous: Learn About Chronic Cough](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/lung-health-diseases\/lung-disease-lookup\/chronic-cough\/learn-about-chronic-cough)\n\n[Next: Treating and Managing Chronic Cough](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/lung-health-diseases\/lung-disease-lookup\/chronic-cough\/treating-and-managing)\n\nReviewed and approved by the American Lung Association Scientific and Medical Editorial Review Panel.\n\n*Page last updated: February 2, 2026*\n\n[Show](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/lung-health-diseases\/lung-disease-lookup\/chronic-cough\/symptoms-diagnosis#modaal_newslettermodal)\n\n[Show](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/lung-health-diseases\/lung-disease-lookup\/chronic-cough\/symptoms-diagnosis#modaal_altnewslettermodal)\n\n## Make a Donation\nYour tax-deductible donation funds lung disease and lung cancer research, new treatments, lung health education, and more.\n\n[Donate Now](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/donate)\n\n## Become a Lung Health Insider\nJoin over 700,000 people who receive the latest news about lung health, including research, lung disease, air quality, quitting tobacco, inspiring stories and more\\!\n\nThank you! 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The American Lung Association is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization. Our Tax ID is: 13‑1632524.\n\nClose Banner\n\nThis website uses cookies to improve content delivery.\n\n[Learn more](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/policies\/privacy-policy)\n\nBack to Top\n\nAccessibility\n\n[Skip to main content](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/lung-health-diseases\/lung-disease-lookup\/chronic-cough\/symptoms-diagnosis#main)\n\n### Select Your Location\nSelect your location to view local American Lung Association events and news near you.\n\nZip Code\n\nOr\n\nState\n\nAlabama\n\nUpdate Location\n\n### Change Language\n[![translated by Google]()](https:\/\/support.google.com\/translate\/answer\/2534530?hl=en)\n\n## Lung HelpLine\nTalk to our lung health experts at the American Lung Association. Our service is free and we are here to help you.\n\n[Call Our HelpLine](tel:18005864872)\n\n### 1-800-LUNG-USA\n(1-800-586-4872)\n\n[Ask a Question](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/support-community\/lung-helpline-and-tobacco-quitline) [Live Chat]()\n\nPlease ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of [website accessibility](https:\/\/userway.org\/)\n\n✓\n\nThanks for sharing\\!\n\n[AddToAny](https:\/\/www.addtoany.com\/ \"Share Buttons\")\n\n[More…](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/lung-health-diseases\/lung-disease-lookup\/chronic-cough\/symptoms-diagnosis#addtoany \"Show all\")\n\n![](https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/tr?id=427055587939441&ev=PageView&noscript=1)\n\n![](https:\/\/trkn.us\/pixel\/conv\/ppt=24491;g=ctal_1370759c_ala_catchall;gid=60848;ord=3242401254954.722;v=120) ![](https:\/\/trkn.us\/pixel\/conv\/ppt=25048;g=ctal_all_ala_catchall;gid=62819;ord=5282206225642.703;v=120) ![](https:\/\/insight.adsrvr.org\/track\/pxl\/?adv=k03bhy0&ct=0:wzpq3hi&fmt=3) ![](https:\/\/trkn.us\/pixel\/conv\/ppt=26241;g=ctal_1529754a_alavaping_catchall;gid=67645;ord=3009637115529.7354;v=120) ![](https:\/\/trkn.us\/pixel\/conv\/ppt=26242;g=ctal_1529754b_alavaping_catchall;gid=67650;ord=5847087351678.51;v=120) ![](https:\/\/trkn.us\/pixel\/conv\/ppt=26243;g=ctal_1529754c_alavaping_catchall;gid=67655;ord=4274731528894.3755;v=120) ![](https:\/\/trkn.us\/pixel\/conv\/ppt=26312;g=ctal_1529434_alaeastcoast_catchall;gid=67894;ord=4338463059710.3423;v=120) ![](https:\/\/trkn.us\/pixel\/conv\/ppt=26513;g=ctal_1557578_alalungcancer_catchall;gid=68821;ord=4407623348154.282;v=120) ![](https:\/\/trkn.us\/pixel\/conv\/ppt=26583;g=ctal_1563461_alalungcancer_catchall;gid=69092;ord=7725746454711.774;v=120)","attrs_readable_markdown":"A chronic cough lasts eight weeks or longer because this threshold makes it less likely that the cough is caused by a respiratory infection or common cold. You may also experience cough spasms which are sometimes called “spells,” “fits” or “bouts.” These are sudden, often intense and uncontrollable coughing episodes that may last several minutes. These coughing spells may cause physical symptoms such as chest pain, vomiting, difficulty breathing or bladder leakage.\n\n## May Be a Symptom of Another Disease\nAlternatively, a chronic cough could be a symptom of a lung disease that hasn't yet been diagnosed by your healthcare provider. Your healthcare provider will work with you to take a thorough history and physical exam to attempt to identify the cause of your chronic cough.\n\nIt is important to understand that a chronic cough can also be a sign of a disease not related to the lung at all. Your healthcare provider may have you evaluated by other specialists besides a lung doctor. This could include an allergist, an ear, nose and throat specialist (ENT), heart doctor (cardiologist) or an esophagus\/stomach specialist.\n\n### When to see your healthcare provider\nA cough that lasts less than eight weeks is usually caused by a respiratory infection and will go away on its own.  \nIf you have developed a cough of any kind that goes on for longer than eight weeks, you should see your healthcare provider for a thorough exam to determine what is causing it.\n\n## How Is Chronic Cough Diagnosed?\nTo identify the cause of your chronic cough, your healthcare provider will ask questions about your medical history, do a physical exam and run some tests. Learn more about diagnosing a chronic cough.\n\n#### Medical history\nYour healthcare provider will most likely ask you several questions about your cough, overall health and activities:\n\n#### Diagnostic tests\nYour healthcare provider may order tests. Some diagnostic tests may need to be completed by a specialist besides your primary health care provider. The tests ordered may include:\n\n- [Chest X-ray](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/lung-health-diseases\/lung-procedures-and-tests\/chest-x-ray): Quick and easy chest picture\n- Blood sample: To see if your body is fighting an infection or if there are signs of allergies\n- [CT scan of the chest](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/lung-health-diseases\/lung-procedures-and-tests\/ct-scan): A better-quality picture of the chest\n- Throat swab: Usually done with a long cotton swab\n- Phlegm or sputum sample: Collected after a deep cough\n- [Lung function tests](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/lung-health-diseases\/lung-procedures-and-tests\/lung-function-tests): Are a series of tests that can tell how well your lungs are working. The most common lung function test is [spirometry](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/lung-health-diseases\/lung-procedures-and-tests\/spirometry).\n- [Methacholine challenge test](https:\/\/www.lung.org\/lung-health-diseases\/lung-procedures-and-tests\/methacholine-challenge-test): A breathing test often used to diagnose or rule out asthma\n\nReviewed and approved by the American Lung Association Scientific and Medical Editorial Review Panel.\n\n*Page last updated: February 2, 2026*","meta_canonical":null}

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URL	https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/chronic-cough/symptoms-diagnosis
Last Crawled	2026-04-16 19:44:54 (7 hours ago)
First Indexed	2020-05-24 06:57:12 (5 years ago)
HTTP Status Code	200
Meta Title	Chronic Cough Symptoms and Diagnosis \| American Lung Association
Meta Description	It's important to keep in mind that a chronic cough lasts eight weeks or longer because this threshold makes it less likely that the cough is caused by a respiratory infection or common cold.
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Boilerpipe Text	A chronic cough lasts eight weeks or longer because this threshold makes it less likely that the cough is caused by a respiratory infection or common cold. You may also experience cough spasms which are sometimes called “spells,” “fits” or “bouts.” These are sudden, often intense and uncontrollable coughing episodes that may last several minutes. These coughing spells may cause physical symptoms such as chest pain, vomiting, difficulty breathing or bladder leakage. May Be a Symptom of Another Disease Alternatively, a chronic cough could be a symptom of a lung disease that hasn't yet been diagnosed by your healthcare provider. Your healthcare provider will work with you to take a thorough history and physical exam to attempt to identify the cause of your chronic cough. It is important to understand that a chronic cough can also be a sign of a disease not related to the lung at all. Your healthcare provider may have you evaluated by other specialists besides a lung doctor. This could include an allergist, an ear, nose and throat specialist (ENT), heart doctor (cardiologist) or an esophagus/stomach specialist. When to see your healthcare provider A cough that lasts less than eight weeks is usually caused by a respiratory infection and will go away on its own. If you have developed a cough of any kind that goes on for longer than eight weeks, you should see your healthcare provider for a thorough exam to determine what is causing it. How Is Chronic Cough Diagnosed? To identify the cause of your chronic cough, your healthcare provider will ask questions about your medical history, do a physical exam and run some tests. Learn more about diagnosing a chronic cough. Medical history Your healthcare provider will most likely ask you several questions about your cough, overall health and activities: Diagnostic tests Your healthcare provider may order tests. Some diagnostic tests may need to be completed by a specialist besides your primary health care provider. The tests ordered may include: Chest X-ray : Quick and easy chest picture Blood sample: To see if your body is fighting an infection or if there are signs of allergies CT scan of the chest : A better-quality picture of the chest Throat swab: Usually done with a long cotton swab Phlegm or sputum sample: Collected after a deep cough Lung function tests : Are a series of tests that can tell how well your lungs are working. The most common lung function test is spirometry . Methacholine challenge test : A breathing test often used to diagnose or rule out asthma Reviewed and approved by the American Lung Association Scientific and Medical Editorial Review Panel. Page last updated: February 2, 2026
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[Chronic Cough Symptoms and Diagnosis](https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/chronic-cough/symptoms-diagnosis) # Chronic Cough Symptoms and Diagnosis - [Facebook](https://www.lung.org/#facebook) - [Twitter](https://www.lung.org/#twitter) - [LinkedIn](https://www.lung.org/#linkedin) - [Email](https://www.lung.org/#email) - [Print](https://www.lung.org/#print) ![Man coughing into tissue at his desk](https://www.lung.org/optimize/getmedia/7b9e9758-70b0-432e-8aab-548d1c8bab15/chronic-cough-symptoms_D.jpg?width=1200&height=800&ext=.jpg&format=webp) ![Man coughing into tissue at his desk]() Section Menu [Chronic Cough](https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/chronic-cough) - [Learn About Chronic Cough](https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/chronic-cough/learn-about-chronic-cough) - [Chronic Cough Symptoms and Diagnosis](https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/chronic-cough/symptoms-diagnosis) - [Treating and Managing Chronic Cough](https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/chronic-cough/treating-and-managing) - [Newly Diagnosed](https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/chronic-cough/newly-diagnosed) - [Chronic Cough Resources and Videos](https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/chronic-cough/chronic-cough-resources) - [Chronic Cough Quiz](https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/chronic-cough/chronic-cough-quiz) A chronic cough lasts eight weeks or longer because this threshold makes it less likely that the cough is caused by a respiratory infection or common cold. You may also experience cough spasms which are sometimes called “spells,” “fits” or “bouts.” These are sudden, often intense and uncontrollable coughing episodes that may last several minutes. These coughing spells may cause physical symptoms such as chest pain, vomiting, difficulty breathing or bladder leakage. [![Woman with blonde hair facing the camera](https://www.lung.org/optimize/getmedia/85f2c2bb-09ae-4447-b770-d3b19ddba717/chronic-cough.jpg?format=webp) iframe video](https://www.youtube.com/embed/R7rZIV6mQ3c) Chronic cough isn’t contagious and it can’t always be linked as a symptom to any other disease. [Watch Video](https://www.youtube.com/embed/R7rZIV6mQ3c) Transcript I quit going to yoga class because of it. Yoga's supposed to be this peaceful experience. But then my cough would start. People would look at me irritated like I was contagious. But I'm not. My doctors don't know what's going on. I just can't stop coughing. If you've experienced a similar cough, learn about chronic cough and how you might be affected by taking our quiz at Lung.org. ## May Be a Symptom of Another Disease Alternatively, a chronic cough could be a symptom of a lung disease that hasn't yet been diagnosed by your healthcare provider. Your healthcare provider will work with you to take a thorough history and physical exam to attempt to identify the cause of your chronic cough. It is important to understand that a chronic cough can also be a sign of a disease not related to the lung at all. Your healthcare provider may have you evaluated by other specialists besides a lung doctor. This could include an allergist, an ear, nose and throat specialist (ENT), heart doctor (cardiologist) or an esophagus/stomach specialist. ### When to see your healthcare provider A cough that lasts less than eight weeks is usually caused by a respiratory infection and will go away on its own. If you have developed a cough of any kind that goes on for longer than eight weeks, you should see your healthcare provider for a thorough exam to determine what is causing it. ## Questions about Your Chronic Cough Talk with our experts at the American Lung Association Lung HelpLine. Our service is free and we are here to help you by phone, web chat or email. [Visit the Helpline](https://www.lung.org/help-support/lung-helpline) If you are experiencing a fever, shortness of breath, drenching night sweat, coughing up blood, unexplained weight loss, wheezing, hoarseness or trouble swallowing along with your cough, discuss these symptoms with your healthcare provider or seek urgent medical treatment. [CTA](https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/chronic-cough/symptoms-diagnosis) [![Dr. Albert Rizzo](https://www.lung.org/optimize/getmedia/d8abde39-fade-4338-bc52-24ee6bc7df29/chronic-cough-video-2.jpg?format=webp) iframe video](https://www.youtube.com/embed/iGrAdIpPgdY?si=TLRIC191hnUKk5PM) A cough is considered chronic if it lasts eight weeks, and often it lasts much longer. And it often doesn’t respond to treatment. [Watch Video](https://www.youtube.com/embed/iGrAdIpPgdY?si=TLRIC191hnUKk5PM) Transcript Chronic cough can impact my patients' entire lives: lack of sleep, social stigma, concern over a misdiagnosis. A cough is considered chronic if it lasts 8 weeks, and often it lasts much longer. It can't always be linked as a symptom to any other disease, and it often doesn't respond to treatment. If you've experienced a similar cough, learn about chronic cough and how you might be affected by taking our quiz at Lung.org. ## How Is Chronic Cough Diagnosed? To identify the cause of your chronic cough, your healthcare provider will ask questions about your medical history, do a physical exam and run some tests. Learn more about diagnosing a chronic cough. #### Medical history Your healthcare provider will most likely ask you several questions about your cough, overall health and activities: About Your Cough - When did your cough start? - Does your cough bring up mucus? - If there is mucus, what's the consistency and color? Is there any blood? - Are there any specific triggers to your cough? (weather, air quality, mealtimes, bedtime, exposures) - What are the treatments or ways you alleviate your cough? (over the counter medications, throat lozenges, water, etc.) About Your Activities - Have you had any changes in your home or other indoor environments (new carpeting, heating or air conditioning system, new pets, etc.)? - Do you have any allergies, sinus issues or have postnasal drip? - What do you do for a living? What is your workplace like? (dusty, damp, cold, etc.) - What do you do during your time off? Have you recently traveled? - Do you use tobacco products (cigarettes, cigars, a pipe or e-cigarettes) or marijuana? Do you use recreational drugs? About Your Overall Health - Have you been in close contact with anyone who has similar symptoms or a known respiratory infection such as common cold, tuberculosis, pneumonia or whooping cough? - Do you have any medical illnesses or chronic diseases? - Do you have trouble swallowing? - Do you have trouble with indigestion or heartburn? - Have you started on any new medications recently? #### Diagnostic tests Your healthcare provider may order tests. Some diagnostic tests may need to be completed by a specialist besides your primary health care provider. The tests ordered may include: - [Chest X-ray](https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-procedures-and-tests/chest-x-ray): Quick and easy chest picture - Blood sample: To see if your body is fighting an infection or if there are signs of allergies - [CT scan of the chest](https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-procedures-and-tests/ct-scan): A better-quality picture of the chest - Throat swab: Usually done with a long cotton swab - Phlegm or sputum sample: Collected after a deep cough - [Lung function tests](https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-procedures-and-tests/lung-function-tests): Are a series of tests that can tell how well your lungs are working. The most common lung function test is [spirometry](https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-procedures-and-tests/spirometry). - [Methacholine challenge test](https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-procedures-and-tests/methacholine-challenge-test): A breathing test often used to diagnose or rule out asthma ## Questions about Your Chronic Cough? Talk with our experts at the American Lung Association Lung HelpLine. Our service is free and we are here to help you by phone, web chat or email. [Visit the Helpline](https://www.lung.org/help-support/lung-helpline) [Previous: Learn About Chronic Cough](https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/chronic-cough/learn-about-chronic-cough) [Next: Treating and Managing Chronic Cough](https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/chronic-cough/treating-and-managing) Reviewed and approved by the American Lung Association Scientific and Medical Editorial Review Panel. 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Readable Markdown	A chronic cough lasts eight weeks or longer because this threshold makes it less likely that the cough is caused by a respiratory infection or common cold. You may also experience cough spasms which are sometimes called “spells,” “fits” or “bouts.” These are sudden, often intense and uncontrollable coughing episodes that may last several minutes. These coughing spells may cause physical symptoms such as chest pain, vomiting, difficulty breathing or bladder leakage. ## May Be a Symptom of Another Disease Alternatively, a chronic cough could be a symptom of a lung disease that hasn't yet been diagnosed by your healthcare provider. Your healthcare provider will work with you to take a thorough history and physical exam to attempt to identify the cause of your chronic cough. It is important to understand that a chronic cough can also be a sign of a disease not related to the lung at all. Your healthcare provider may have you evaluated by other specialists besides a lung doctor. This could include an allergist, an ear, nose and throat specialist (ENT), heart doctor (cardiologist) or an esophagus/stomach specialist. ### When to see your healthcare provider A cough that lasts less than eight weeks is usually caused by a respiratory infection and will go away on its own. If you have developed a cough of any kind that goes on for longer than eight weeks, you should see your healthcare provider for a thorough exam to determine what is causing it. ## How Is Chronic Cough Diagnosed? To identify the cause of your chronic cough, your healthcare provider will ask questions about your medical history, do a physical exam and run some tests. Learn more about diagnosing a chronic cough. #### Medical history Your healthcare provider will most likely ask you several questions about your cough, overall health and activities: #### Diagnostic tests Your healthcare provider may order tests. Some diagnostic tests may need to be completed by a specialist besides your primary health care provider. The tests ordered may include: - [Chest X-ray](https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-procedures-and-tests/chest-x-ray): Quick and easy chest picture - Blood sample: To see if your body is fighting an infection or if there are signs of allergies - [CT scan of the chest](https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-procedures-and-tests/ct-scan): A better-quality picture of the chest - Throat swab: Usually done with a long cotton swab - Phlegm or sputum sample: Collected after a deep cough - [Lung function tests](https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-procedures-and-tests/lung-function-tests): Are a series of tests that can tell how well your lungs are working. The most common lung function test is [spirometry](https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-procedures-and-tests/spirometry). - [Methacholine challenge test](https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-procedures-and-tests/methacholine-challenge-test): A breathing test often used to diagnose or rule out asthma Reviewed and approved by the American Lung Association Scientific and Medical Editorial Review Panel. Page last updated: February 2, 2026
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