People experiencing a cough lasting more than two weeks should undergo a medical examination by a respiratory disease specialist, Consultant Respiratory Physician Dr. Yamuna Rajapakse has warned.
Speaking at a media briefing held at the Health Promotion Bureau, she stressed that coughing up blood, either mixed with phlegm or in larger quantities, requires immediate medical attention.
Dr. Rajapakse said that while coughing and phlegm production are common among smokers, a persistent cough lasting more than two weeks should not be ignored, regardless of whether the individual smokes.
She advised those experiencing such symptoms to consult a respiratory specialist and undergo necessary investigations, including a chest X-ray.
The specialist also identified unexplained weight loss, loss of appetite and chest pain as additional warning signs that require attention, particularly when accompanied by a persistent cough.
She explained that chest pain can sometimes occur when lung cancer spreads to the chest cavity. However, she noted that chest pain could also result from muscular problems and other less serious conditions.
Dr. Rajapakse further pointed out that respiratory specialists and government clinics are available across the country, urging the general public to seek medical advice if they experience these symptoms.
