Is It Just a Cough or Something More? Doctor Shares Lung Health Warning Signs
- Doctor Anywhere Team
- Aug 4
- 5 min read
Every August, the Philippines observes National Lung Month, a timely reminder for Filipinos to care for one of the most vital parts of our body: our lungs. With daily exposure to air pollution, allergens, and the aftereffects of recent health crises, protecting our lungs has never been more crucial.
To help us better understand how to take care of our respiratory system, we spoke to Dr. Catherine Joy Tubig, a licensed pulmonologist of Doctor Anywhere. In our interview, she shared the most common lung conditions among Filipinos, what triggers them, and how to protect yourself and your loved ones.
What are the common lung problems among Filipinos?
According to Dr. Catherine, respiratory diseases are still among the most prevalent health issues in the Philippines.
“We commonly see asthma, pneumonia, tuberculosis (TB), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and of course, colds and flu,” says Dr. Catherine.
Let’s break down what these conditions are:
Asthma (Hika): “This is when your airways are sensitive and can tighten up easily, making it hard to breathe. It’s often triggered by things like dust, pollution, or even changes in weather.”
Pneumonia (Pulmonya): A serious lung infection. “It usually comes with fever, cough, and sometimes chest pain. It’s especially dangerous for babies, the elderly, and those with weak immune systems.”
Tuberculosis (TB): Still very common in the Philippines. “It spreads through the air and causes chronic cough, weight loss, fever, or even coughing up blood if not treated.”
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): “Usually affects older people who’ve smoked for years or been exposed to smoke and pollution. It leads to long-term cough and shortness of breath.”
Colds and Flu (Sipon at Trangkaso): While often seen as mild, Dr. Catherine warns that these can “sometimes lead to more serious infections like bronchitis or pneumonia, especially if you have weak lungs.”
What causes lung problems?
Dr. Catherine explains that many everyday exposures can trigger or worsen lung conditions.
“Air pollution is a big one—smoke from vehicles, cigarettes, or even cooking indoors without proper ventilation can irritate the lungs.”
Other common culprits include:
Smoking or vaping, as well as secondhand smoke
Viral or bacterial infections, like the flu or COVID-19
Sudden changes in weather, which can trigger asthma
Allergens, such as dust, pet fur, or molds
“That’s why it’s important to keep your environment clean, wear a mask when needed, and be careful around people who are coughing,” she adds.
According to the Department of Health (DOH), indoor air pollution and smoking remain major contributors to lung diseases in the country.
Doctor’s Lung Health Tips
We asked Dr. Catherine for her top tips on how to take better care of our lungs. Her advice is clear and practical:
“Keep your environment clean. Make sure there’s good ventilation. Avoid smoke and dust. If you smoke, quit—it’s never too late.”
She also recommends:
Staying active with regular exercise
Getting vaccinated against COVID-19, flu, and pneumonia
Eating healthy and staying hydrated
“A healthy body supports healthy lungs,” she reminds us.
The Mayo Clinic also recommends regular physical activity, vaccinations, and quitting smoking as essential steps to protect lung function.
When to see a doctor?
How do you know when it’s more than “just a cough”?
“If your cough lasts more than two weeks, you have chest pain, difficulty breathing even at rest, recurring fever, unexplained weight loss, or blood in your phlegm—please see a doctor right away,” says Dr. Catherine.
She also cautions against self-medicating for too long. “If symptoms aren’t improving despite taking over-the-counter meds, it could be something more serious.”
And you don’t need to go to a clinic immediately, “With Doctor Anywhere, it’s easier and more convenient to consult via video. You can speak with a licensed doctor, even a pulmonologist, anytime, anywhere—right from your phone.”
We totally agree with Dr. Catherine. For any health concerns, just video consult a licensed doctor through the Doctor Anywhere app. Our general practitioners are available 24/7, even on weekends and holidays, with an average waiting time of less than five minutes. You can also book appointments with our specialists, all from the comfort of your home.
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Sources:
1. Dr. Tubig, Catherine Joy. Interviewed on 17 July 2025.
ABOUT THE EXPERT
Dr. Catherine Joy Tubig is a Pulmonologist at Doctor Anywhere Philippines, specializing in Adult Pulmonary and Critical Care and Pulmonary Vascular Disease. She also practices at Philippine Heart Center and Cardinal Santos Medical Center. Dr. Tubig earned her medical degree from Far Eastern University - Dr. Nicanor Reyes Medical Foundation (FEU-NRMF) and is a Fellow of the Philippine College of Physicians and a Diplomate of the Philippine College of Chest Physicians, bringing advanced expertise in respiratory and critical care medicine. Outside of her medical practice, Dr. Tubig loves spending quality time with her dogs and exploring new destinations through travel.
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