Cough is a common presenting symptom in primary care. Cough is a defensive reflex mechanism that clears secretions from the upper airways of the respiratory tract; it is triggered by the stimulation of a complex reflex arc. Chronic cough can be associated with significant distress and impairment in quality of life.

Chronic dyspnea is shortness of breath that lasts more than one month. The perception of dyspnea varies based on behavioural and physiologic responses.

Dyspnea is a subjective experience of breathing discomfort; patients experience qualitatively distinct sensations that vary in intensity. Acute dyspnea might be secondary to an acute problem, or it might be an exacerbation of an existing disease (eg, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, heart failure).

Overview The most common and important cardiovascular symptom. It is also a very important symptom for the lungs and oesophagus, where the character, pattern of pain and associated symptoms differ. Initial management include oxygen, analgesia, nitrates (to rule in MI) and investigations with ECG and chest X-ray are urgent for patients who present with chest pain + grave […]