If you’ve had a persistent cough for more than eight weeks as an adult (or four weeks in children), it may be time to stop dismissing it as "just a cold." Doctors warn that chronic coughing can significantly reduce quality of life, disrupt sleep patterns, cause fatigue, and even lead to serious physical complications.

In severe cases, ongoing coughs have been known to cause dizziness, rib fractures, and even loss of bladder control due to the constant strain on abdominal muscles. Emotionally, it can lead to anxiety, social embarrassment, and chronic stress - especially when the underlying cause remains undiagnosed.

Common culprits behind long-term coughing include asthma, gastroesophageal reflux (GERD), post-nasal drip, or even early signs of serious respiratory illness like tuberculosis or lung cancer.

Health experts recommend consulting a physician if your cough persists beyond a few weeks - especially if it worsens at night, is accompanied by wheezing or blood, or affects daily functioning. Ignoring it could cost you more than just sleep.