What to do next

[cornflake57]

I have had a chronic cough for a year. I visited my GP in November, and she ordered a chest xray and spirometry test, both normal. She prescribed ventolin, no effect. Then we tried medication for acid reflux and post nasel drip, no effect. My GP this week said that's it nothing else that can be done or prescribed. I still have the chronic cough and feel let down as the cough is a symptom of something. I'm not sure where to turn to next.

[Shancock]

You need to be referred to a lung specialist who can order a CT scan. X rays show very little really whereas a CT shows a clear picture and the specialist can detect any problems in the lungs from it. Also a lung function test can be done via a specialist which is necessary for determining if there's asthma.

If those things all come through as normal then I would try ENT after you see if it's the is easing or throat. An ENT dr can put I small camera into the nose to have a good look and also do a scan of the sinus area.

It's ridiculous for th dr to say nothing can be done. There's always something that can be done. What they mean is they have no idea.

Go and ask for a referral and don't take No for an answer. Or complain to the practice manager in the first instance. It's not right to just leave you coughing. The GP is useless!

Also an allergy test might be a good idea too.

[Jill777 in reply to Shancock]

Your doctor should send you somewhere that can help you if they dont know the answer thats what specialist are for. I always feel a doctor knows a bit about everything but is not an expert on most things. Good luck.

[sandylo in reply to Shancock]

Have you tried phol codeine it's brilliant for coughs

[TyneandWear]

Definitely ask for a 2nd opinion. Your Dr can not refuse this. Just tell her you wish to be referred to a Respiratory Specialist. Once you know a request has been sent (maybe by asking receptionist at your Dr's surgery) find out who the letter has been sent to then you contact the Consultants Secretary and see if an early appointment can be sent to you. OR.............

Find out about who the Respiratory Consultants are in your local hospitals. Google to see how they rate......THEN.....go to your Dr and say you want to be referred to whichever one you fancy.

Good Luck

[Stumpy55]

Hello cornflake57, what is wrong with your doctor, at the very least he should have sent you for further tests with a lung specialist and then C.T scan etc. It's not exceptable and no way should you be coping with this dreadful cough alone with no treatment. I feel very sorry for you , if I were you I would insist on seeing a lung specialist, please don't ignore it. I hope everything goes well for you, please let us know how you get on? Take care of yourself ✋️😊

[Leesea]

Ask for a referral to a respiratory clinic! GPS often don’t know.

[Jenlet]

Hi cornflake 57

Certainly ask for a second opinion or a referral to a specialist. Maybe a change in doctor????

Dan