Persistent Cough: Symptoms

What other symptoms might occur with a cough?

A persistent cough may occur in conjunction with other symptoms, which vary depending on the underlying disease, disorder or condition. Other symptoms include fever, difficulty breathing, and chest pain. Some symptoms, such as sounds the lungs make while you are breathing, changes in blood pressure, and low blood oxygen levels may only be evident using certain instruments in the doctor’s office or hospital.

Common symptoms that may occur along with a persistent cough

Persistent cough may occur with other symptoms including:

• Coughing up clear, yellow, light brown, or green mucus

• Flu-like symptoms (fatigue, fever, sore throat, headache, aches, and pains)

• Hoarse voice

• Nausea

• Red, inflamed throat

• Runny nose (nasal congestion)

• Sore throat

• Swollen neck lymph nodes

• Vomiting

• Wheezing

Other symptoms that may occur along with a persistent cough

Persistent cough may occur with less common symptoms including:

• Diarrhea

• Fatigue

• Joint pain

• Loss of appetite

• Rash

• Unintentional weight loss

Serious symptoms that might indicate a life-threatening condition

In some cases, a persistent cough may occur with other symptoms that might indicate a serious or life-threatening condition that should be immediately evaluated in an emergency setting. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you, or someone you are with, are exhibiting any of these life-threatening symptoms:

• Coughing up blood or blood-tinged mucus or spit

• Coughing up pink, frothy mucus

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath

• Difficulty speaking

• Frequent urination

• High fever (higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit)

• Leg or ankle swelling

• Painful cough or pain while breathing deeply

• Rapid heartbeat

• Severe pain upon swallowing

• Unexplained weight loss or gain