Your GP will refer you to a specialist for tests if they think you may have cancer. COUGHING, CHEST PAIN AND BREATHLESSNESS Contact your GP if you've had a cough for more than three weeks.... Symptoms such as shortness of breath or chest pain may also be a sign of a severe( acute) condition, such as pneumonia.... Symptoms such as shortness of breath or chest pain may also be a sign of a severe( acute) condition, such as pneumonia....