Suggest Treatment For Cold And Cough

Posted on Sun, 3 Jan 2016

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

Sun, 3 Jan 2016 Answered on

Thu, 28 Jan 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : hi, have had what appears to be a cold since Christmas. went to my doctor who took all vitals. temp. 97.8 blood pressure 119/59. lungs clear, no sore throat. no sinus pain. a cough with mucus is there . doesn't want to go away. very annoying . have been on zpac ended today.tired of coughing. any ideas on how to end mucus this length of time has taken my strength. thanks

Answered by Dr. Dr.Albana Sejdini Greca (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Run culture of sputum and throat swab....

Detailed Answer:
Hi my dear,

I am sorry for the annoying health problem you are facing.

From what you are reporting, I can see that you have done many consultations with no clear solution. The mucus is there, the coughing too.

At this point, if I was your caring doctor would advise to culture sputum and throat swab for bacterial or fungal infection. The culture will also give the right anti-bacterial or anti-fungal medication to use for a full recovery.

For the moment, I advise to:
- increase fluids intake
- take antacids and PPIs to ease stomach hyperacidity which is commonly associating with upper respiratory infections
- take mucolytic agents to dissolve mucus
- take coughing medicines (anti-hystaminics); can ask for short term use of steroids
- sleep with 2 pillows
- avoid laying down immediately after eating

At the end, culture of sputum and throat swab are necessary for final solutions.
Wish fast recovery!
Dr.Albana

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar