What is a Prolonged Cough? Why does it occur in children? Coughs exceeding 4 weeks in children are considered "prolonged cough" and should be investigated as it can cause serious lung damage. If the cause of the cough is not found and treated, children may develop lung problems in the long term. Although this period is accepted as 6-8 weeks in adults, coughs over 4 weeks are risky due to the sensitivity of children's lungs. Prolonged [...]