Well-known Russian physician and TV presenter Alexander Myasnikov has advised not to ignore a persistent cough, as it may be a sign of serious health conditions. His comments were reported by medikforum.ru.
According to the doctor, a long-lasting cough in people who smoke may be associated with lung-related diseases. He noted that if a person has quit smoking but the cough continues for more than a month, further medical examination may be necessary.
“If a cough persists for over a month after quitting smoking, a CT scan should be considered,” Myasnikov explained. He added that particular attention is needed if blood traces appear in sputum and no signs of pneumonia or other respiratory infections are detected.
Unintentional weight loss can also be a symptom that requires medical evaluation. As the doctor emphasized, a standard chest X-ray may not always detect certain conditions in the lungs, which is why more detailed diagnostic tests may be recommended when symptoms persist.
In addition to lung-related issues, a chronic cough may also be linked to heart health. If the cough is dry, does not improve, becomes long-term, and is not associated with respiratory illnesses, consulting a cardiologist may be advisable.
Myasnikov noted that elevated cholesterol levels and borderline blood sugar values can affect heart function and may sometimes be accompanied by mild, persistent coughing. This, he said, is among the more common non-respiratory causes of chronic cough.
Important Note
This content is provided for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Individuals experiencing persistent symptoms should consult a qualified healthcare provider.
