Coughing is a normal reflex, your body’s way of keeping your airways clear. But if your cough lingers for weeks or even months after a cold, it might be more than just dry winter air.
At PulseAir Heart & Lung Centre in Edmonton, we often meet Albertans who’ve “just had a cough that wouldn’t go away.” Sometimes, that cough is a sign of an underlying lung issue like asthma, COPD, or another respiratory condition that needs medical attention.
So how do you know when a cough is something to watch, and when it’s time to see a lung specialist?
When a Cough Becomes a Concern
Most short-term coughs clear up within two to three weeks, especially after a viral infection. But a persistent cough that lasts eight weeks or longer could indicate a deeper issue.
You may need to see a lung specialist if your cough:
- Lasts more than 8 weeks or doesn’t improve
- Keeps you up at night or disrupts your sleep
- Comes with shortness of breath or wheezing
- Causes chest tightness or pain
- Produces mucus, especially if it’s discoloured or bloody
- Is accompanied by fatigue, unexplained weight loss, or frequent infections
These symptoms can point to respiratory conditions such as:
- Asthma – Airway inflammation triggered by allergens, exercise, or cold air
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) – Often related to smoking or long-term exposure to lung irritants
- Post-nasal drip or sinus issues – Common in Alberta’s dry winter climate
- Acid reflux (GERD) – Can irritate the throat and airways
- Interstitial or allergic lung diseases – Less common, but important to rule out early
Ask your doctor about a referral for Pulmonary Function Testing at PulseAir. These tests measure how well your lungs move air and oxygen, essential for accurate diagnosis.
Why Winter Makes It Worse
Alberta winters bring several cough triggers:
- Cold, dry air that irritates the airways and causes inflammation
- Indoor heating that dries out nasal passages and throat
- Increased exposure to viruses (cold, flu, RSV, COVID-19)
- Seasonal allergens from dust, pets, and mould buildup inside sealed homes
For people already living with asthma, COPD, or heart conditions, these winter factors can worsen symptoms or lead to flare-ups.
When to See a Lung Specialist in Alberta
If your cough isn’t going away, it’s time to speak with a professional, especially if you live with a chronic condition or notice your breathing is getting worse.
A lung specialist (also known as a respirologist or pulmonologist) can help by:
- Identifying the cause of your cough through tests and evaluation
- Assessing lung function with pulmonary function tests (PFTs) or spirometry
- Creating a personalized treatment plan to manage your condition
- Coordinating with your family doctor to ensure comprehensive care
At PulseAir Heart & Lung Centre, our team provides advanced diagnostic testing and consultations right here in Edmonton, serving patients across Alberta. Book a respiratory consultation with our team. We’ll assess your symptoms and help you understand what’s going on.
What to Expect at Your Appointment
During your visit, your clinician may:
- Ask about your cough (how long it’s lasted, what makes it worse)
- Review your medical history and lifestyle factors (such as smoking or exposure to irritants)
- Conduct lung testing to check how well your lungs move air
- Recommend imaging, medication, or further follow-up if needed
You’ll leave with answers — and a plan to help you breathe easier.
Protecting Your Lungs at Home
While waiting for your appointment or managing mild symptoms, try these steps to support your lung health:
- Use a humidifier to add moisture to dry indoor air.
- Bundle up in cold weather — breathe through a scarf to warm incoming air.
- Avoid smoke and strong scents that can irritate your airways.
- Keep your home clean — change furnace filters regularly and dust often.
- Stay up to date on vaccines, including flu and pneumonia shots.
Monitor your symptoms and note when they worsen; this helps your specialist identify triggers.
Related Reading: 5 Ways to Improve Your Indoor Air Quality
Take Control of Your Lung Health
A lingering cough doesn’t have to become your new normal. Alberta’s cold, dry climate can make respiratory symptoms feel worse, but with the right care, you can breathe easier year-round.
If your cough has lasted more than a few weeks — or you’re worried it’s something more — the experts at PulseAir Heart & Lung Centre are here to help.
Book a respiratory consultation or lung test today and get back to feeling like yourself again.
Book a Respiratory Consultation at PulseAir