·        In cases of persistent cough, the GP investigates signs and symptoms suggestive of an airway infection, asthma, postnasal drip or gastro-oesophageal reflux (evidence level 3).

·        The GP investigates environmental factors (particularly smoking) associated with the cough (evidence level 2-3).

·        In the presence of warning signs, screening is required for other serious diseases (evidence level 3).

·        The case history is refined in relation to diagnostic suspicions.

·        Additional testing takes place based on clinical investigation. If infection is suspected, serological tests for Mycoplasma pneumoniae or Bordetella pertussis serology and/or a PCR test can be performed (evidence level 2-3). CRP determination is performed in cases of suspected pneumonia.

·        Lung function tests may be useful in diagnosing asthma among children over 5 years of age. Skin tests and specific IgE determination are useful when investigating the cause of asthma (evidence level 2-3).

·        In children over 6 years of age, sinus radiography is sometimes useful for excluding sinusitis (evidence level 2-3).

·        Treatment is administered depending on the aetiology. Antitussive agents are not recommended in children. None of these agents seems to be effective in this age group. Due to side effects, antitussives are strictly contraindicated in children below one year of age.

·        In most cases, non-specific persistent cough resolves spontaneously and complications of cough are rare. For this reason, the doctor should always carefully assess the need for antitussive treatment.

·        The doctor should inform parents that the slope of this symptom is favourable and should allay their concerns. This forms an important part of the consultation, especially when parents expressly ask for medication.