Suggest Treatment For Persistent Cold And Cough

Posted on Mon, 18 Jan 2016

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

Mon, 18 Jan 2016 Answered on

Mon, 15 Feb 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : I had 20% of my left lung taken out for early cancer. This occurred 13 months ago. I have had a cat scan last month and there is no evidence that the cancer had returned. Each time I go to the hospital for X-rays etc I seem to get an upper respitory infection. Consequently I believe I may have bronchitus because of the amount of mucus that I cough up. Is there anything I can use to help the mucus leave my lungs. I also have a head cold. I have myself on 2 liters of oxygen to assist my breathing. I think that covers it all. Thanks

Answered by Dr. Shafi Ullah Khan (3 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Supportive care only with mucolytics and antibiotics.

Detailed Answer:
Thank you for asking

i read your question and i understand your concern. History of lung cancer, lobectomy of lung with only 20 % left, age of 81 are all aggravating factors for the respiratory infection. Earliest treatment of the symptoms and supportive care is XXXXXXX ou need. Right now for mucus, any mucolytic like mucinex etc would work. If you have fever and bronchitis is not subsiding then you may need antibiotic for that as well.

Rest supportive care like fluids intake, oxygen inhalation, humidified air breathing by use of a humidifier in house, steam inhalation etc will help the upper airways.

I hope it helps. Take good care of yourself and don't forget to close the discussion please.

Regards
Khan

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