Suggest Treatment For Severe Cough

Posted on Fri, 4 Dec 2015

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

Fri, 4 Dec 2015 Answered on

Mon, 21 Dec 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : I have a cough that I can't get rid of and have lost my voice and Yesterday I started throwing up shortly after eating

Answered by Dr. Dr. Muhammad Sareer Khalil (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Need more info

Detailed Answer:
Hello and welcome

I appreciate your concern

Kindly answer the following to advise accordingly.

When exactly did you develop the cough. Specify the duration.
Do you have any shortness of breath or fever associated with this cough
Do you get these episodes frequently or is it the first instance.
Do you have any history of seasonal allergies , asthma or COPD.

Wishing you best of health

Thanks

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

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Muhammad Sareer Khalil (7 hours later)

The cough started about 2 months ago, but has been getting worse to the point that at times I throw up because of coughing.
I do have shortness of breath and at times I have a hard time breathing. I do have asthma, but with that it's not constant. I recently got over the flu and had a slight fever with that, but I do not have one now.
This is the first instance where I have had coughing episodes, but since this has started I have been real tired.
Thank you for your help XXXXXXX

Answered by Dr. Dr. Muhammad Sareer Khalil (27 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Explained

Detailed Answer:
Hello again, XXXXXXX

Persistent cough can be debilitating and tiring. Irritation in the throat and pharynx can lead to a dry repetitive hacking cough. You need to stay well hydrated. Steam inhalation with a couple of drops of menthol or vicks can be helpful. Hot tea with 2 teaspoon of honey is a soothing and natural remedy. Combinations of terbutaline with guaifenesin or with acetylcysteine can help thin out the mucus and expectorate it with ease. These cough medication are likely to be available OTC. You can check your local pharmacy store for it. With the above, your symptoms will most likely improve. If the cough persists, shortness of breath worsens or there is associated fever then you need to consult your doctor who may advise an x ray chest and blood counts to look for other causes that may require treatment with antibiotics +/_ steroids.

Let me know if you have any query

Wishing you best of health

Thanks

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