I Cough A Lot At Night (productive With Phlegm), Have

Posted on Mon, 26 Nov 2018

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Mon, 26 Nov 2018 Answered on

Last reviewed on

Question : I cough a lot at night (productive with phlegm), have irritation (a gravelly feeling) near my larynx all day, sometimes feel like food is stuck near the region of irritation, and have had swollen glands on both sides under my jaw near the back for a very long time. I have smoked and drank most of my life (currently about seven cigarettes a day and four beers a week). My wife (an RN) suspects GERD, pulmonary problems, or throat cancer. I don't have insurance, so I can't afford to visit a family doctor only to be referred to a specialist. What kind of doctor should I seek out to determine the cause of my problems?

Answered by Dr. Dr. Prasad J (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
ENT surgeon or pulmonologist...

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

This type of symptoms can have more than one cause and it's difficult to isolate / narrow down possibility. A detailed evaluation including step by step tests will ideal. I will consider visiting an ENT surgeon or pulmonologist to begin testing.

In the meanwhile while the doctor's run tests, I will consider starting an anthistamine medication along with steam inhalation. It eases the discomfort.

Hope this helps. Let me know if you need any other information.

Regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad