Painful chesty cough - doctor yes or no?

[Noitsnotteatimeyet]

I had a big standard cold about 3 weeks ago - I thought I was getting over it but since last Friday ive had a painful and persistent cough and sore throat

Obviously if it's just a virus I realise there's nothing the GP can do and o don't want to waste their time but should I be getting it checked out in case it's something nastier?

Are you wheezing or crackling when you breath out? Like a small marsh is deep down in your chest? (Ie it's like a wet soggy patch of lung). If so it's an infection and GP can prescribe antibiotics.

If not it's viral and not much they can do. Ibuprofen can help ease inflammation (if not asthmatic) and lots of warm drinks, steam etc. Paracetamol for pain.