Warning Issued Over Winter Coughs

A cold weather cough that will not clear up could be the first sign of more serious illness, say experts. Pharmacists have been asked by their professional body to pick out people with persistent problems and urge them to see their GP.

A long-lasting cough could indicate chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, which affects millions in the UK, or even cancer. Specialists said catching illness early would improve treatment chances.

At this time of year, millions of people develop chest problems, many caused by infections, which will clear up over the following days or weeks. However, the Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain said that a few may be early symptoms of lung cancer.