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Dr. Andrew Rynne
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Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Does Severe Cough And Sore Throat From Inhaling Paint Fumes Need Medical Attention?

Hi, I sanded down some gloss paint without wearing a mask and then spent a day painting with gloss paint. That evening I had obviously inhaled the paint dust as had white paint in my snot when I blew my nose. I now a day later have a bad cough and sore throat and in the morning am coughing up thick, yellow phlem. Should I worry or wait for it to pass?
Thu, 29 Oct 2020
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General Surgeon,  's  Response
Hi,

Coughing yellow phlegm the morning after having exposure to gloss paint is a cause of concern. This is indicates local reaction to the respiratory system as a whole. Yellow phlegm indicates a possibility of an infection that is more dangerous in such a situation.

This is a serious problem hence, I would advise you the following:
- Consult a doctor as soon as possible
- Clinical examination and evaluation
- Send the sputum for lab tests including culture and sensitivity
- X-ray of chest and CT scan if required
- Tests of blood
- Get started on appropriate antibiotic
- Symptomatic and supportive treatment
- Second opinion of a pulmonologist as such cases are rare an needs careful evaluation and proper management

Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. T. Chandrakant, General Surgeon
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Does Severe Cough And Sore Throat From Inhaling Paint Fumes Need Medical Attention?

Hi, Coughing yellow phlegm the morning after having exposure to gloss paint is a cause of concern. This is indicates local reaction to the respiratory system as a whole. Yellow phlegm indicates a possibility of an infection that is more dangerous in such a situation. This is a serious problem hence, I would advise you the following: - Consult a doctor as soon as possible - Clinical examination and evaluation - Send the sputum for lab tests including culture and sensitivity - X-ray of chest and CT scan if required - Tests of blood - Get started on appropriate antibiotic - Symptomatic and supportive treatment - Second opinion of a pulmonologist as such cases are rare an needs careful evaluation and proper management Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. T. Chandrakant, General Surgeon