关键词:  , 咳嗽, 全科医学, 诊断, 鉴别诊断

Abstract: As a common chief complaint in general practice，the diagnosis of cough is a constant challenge to general practitioners（GPs） due to its various causative factors as well as its potential association with some critical diseases. From the perspective of GPs，we analyzed and summarized the causes of cough，and developed the diagnostic idea for cough after reviewing relevant literature and guidelines，that is，appropriately evaluating patient conditions based on accurately analyzing medical history，results of physical and diagnostic examinations as well as past treatment（if any），with a view to helping GPs to make a clinical diagnosis of cough timely and accurately to reduce the possibilities of developing serious negative consequences，ultimately leading to better treatment effect and more harmonious patient-physician relationships.

Key words: Cough, General practice, Diagnosis, Differential diagnosis