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A cough lasting more than 8 weeks. The three most common causes in non-smokers are asthma, postnasal drip, and acid reflux — often in combination.
There are several possible causes. Here are the most common ones:
Airway hyperreactivity causing cough without typical wheeze.
You might suspect this if you have:
Mucus from sinuses dripping down throat.
You might suspect this if you have:
Stomach acid irritating the lower oesophagus and throat.
You might suspect this if you have:
Cough persisting weeks after a respiratory infection.
You might suspect this if you have:
Common side effect of blood pressure medications.
You might suspect this if you have:
Requires investigation in persistent cases.
You might suspect this if you have:
Important: This information is for general guidance only and should not be used to self-diagnose. A doctor can properly assess your symptoms and provide appropriate advice.
Call 000 or go to Emergency immediately
Chronic cough is one of the most common reasons for GP referral, and the diagnosis often involves treating the three most common causes (asthma, postnasal drip, reflux) sequentially or simultaneously. The key in telehealth assessment is ruling out serious causes first: any smoker or ex-smoker with a new or changed cough needs a chest X-ray. Coughing blood (haemoptysis) always warrants investigation. Unexplained weight loss with cough raises concern for malignancy. Once these are excluded, the 'big three' account for over 90% of chronic cough cases. A structured trial of treatment — inhaler for possible asthma, nasal steroid for postnasal drip, PPI for reflux — often identifies the cause by which treatment works. ACE inhibitor cough is a commonly overlooked cause that resolves within 1-4 weeks of switching medication.
Medical certificate guidance: Chronic cough can be disruptive at work — particularly in quiet environments. If cough is severe enough to cause vomiting, urinary incontinence, or significant sleep disruption, a certificate is appropriate.
All clinical decisions are made by AHPRA-registered doctors following our clinical governance framework. We never automate clinical decisions.
A cough lasting more than 8 weeks is considered chronic and warrants investigation. Post-infectious coughs can last 2-3 weeks after a cold — this duration is normal.
Depending on the likely cause: spirometry (for asthma), chest X-ray (for smokers or if lung pathology suspected), trial of PPI medication (for reflux), or nasal endoscopy (for postnasal drip).
Yes. A persistent cough can disrupt sleep, cause voice strain, and make certain work environments difficult (quiet offices, phone-based work).
If your symptoms are keeping you from work or study, you can request a medical certificate through InstantMed. A doctor will review your symptoms and issue a certificate if clinically appropriate — typically for 1 to 3 days depending on severity. You don't need to be dramatically unwell; feeling genuinely too rough to function is reason enough.
Yes. Australian-registered doctors can assess your symptoms and issue valid medical certificates via telehealth. You fill in a detailed health questionnaire, a doctor reviews it, and if appropriate, your certificate is delivered digitally. No waiting room required.
You complete a structured health questionnaire covering your symptoms, duration, severity, and relevant medical history. The reviewing doctor uses this information — the same clinical reasoning they'd apply in a face-to-face consult — to determine whether a certificate, advice, or referral is appropriate.
A medical certificate covers the period stated on the document. If your symptoms worsen or don't improve as expected, you should see a GP in person or visit your nearest emergency department if it's urgent. Your certificate doesn't replace ongoing care — it's a point-in-time clinical assessment.
In some cases, yes. If a doctor reviewing your request determines that a common, non-restricted treatment is appropriate, they may issue a prescription as part of a consultation. Not all symptoms require or qualify for a prescription — the doctor will advise you on next steps.
Medical certificates are typically issued in under 30 minutes, available 24/7. Other requests are reviewed within 1–2 hours during operating hours (8am–10pm AEST, 7 days). You'll receive an email notification once your request has been reviewed.
If your symptoms suggest something that requires a physical examination, diagnostic tests, or specialist referral, the doctor will let you know and recommend appropriate next steps. Your safety is the priority — telehealth is a great option for many things, but it's not a replacement for hands-on assessment when that's what's needed.
No Medicare card is required for medical certificates. If you're requesting a prescription or consultation, a valid Medicare card is needed. Our service is private and does not attract a Medicare rebate, though any prescriptions issued can still attract PBS subsidies at the pharmacy.
A reflex that helps clear your airways. Can be dry or productive (with mucus), and acute (short-term) or chronic (lasting weeks).
Pain, scratchiness, or irritation in the throat that often worsens when swallowing. One of the most common reasons people seek medical advice.
Chest pain can indicate a heart attack or other serious conditions. Many cases are not life-threatening. Knowing the warning signs helps you decide when to seek emergency care.
Difficulty breathing or feeling like you can't get enough air. Can indicate serious conditions.
Our Australian-registered doctors can assess your symptoms and provide advice, treatment, or medical certificates if needed.
Get assessedThis information is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your health. Content on this page has been reviewed by AHPRA-registered Australian doctors but does not replace a personalised medical consultation.