What type of cough is it?
Purulant? Coughing up sputum
chesty?
Non-productive?
It may be a bacterial infection (as is the strepticoocci family) that will explain your symptoms. With these types infections they are ussually not withstanding and with rest you will get better. I would personally see a gp if you are concerned, expecially if you are having difficulties with your breathing. You may need some antibiotics to clear it up