13 Body Signals Indian Doctors Wish You Wouldn't Ignore

3. Chronic cough or voice change

A cough that lasts more than three weeks or a persistent change in voice should not be ignored. Causes range from persistent infections and asthma to gastroesophageal reflux and, in some cases, early lung or laryngeal cancer. In India, air pollution and seasonal smoke spikes—like the post-festival smog—worsen chronic cough and can hide steadily progressive disease. Smokers and those exposed to indoor biomass smoke are at higher risk of lung conditions. If cough is accompanied by blood, weight loss, night sweats, or chest pain, seek evaluation urgently. Start with a chest X-ray and ENT or pulmonology review as advised. Simple interventions like quitting smoking, improving indoor ventilation, and avoiding outdoor pollution on high-smog days can reduce symptoms, but persistent cough should be medically assessed to rule out serious causes.