Question: First I'm weary of consulting a doctor through a website and paying a fee. Regardless I'll give it a try if it's not too expensive. I'm HIV positive (diagnosed about 20 years ago). The virus is/has been undetectable for at least 18 years and my T-cells hover around 500. My cough started about three years ago, mostly at night. About two years ago I sought medical attention. I was prescribed an antibiotic regimen, twice. My symptoms persisted, and I was diagnosed with post-nasal drip. I was prescribed antibiotics (again), an oral medication, and two very expensive inhalers.
Fast forward to a year ago. I. changed doctors and a battery of tests were ordered. Everything was normal. My HIV doctor snuck in an additional test. I was diagnosed with a cryptococcal infection in my lungs and maybe my brain. A spinal tap was performed and the infection had not spread to my brain. I was prescribed fluconazole and have been taking it for about a year. I also have chronic nasal "shingles/scabs" which are painful and can obstruct my breathing.
A little over a week ago, I developed a cough, hoarseness, and nausea (no fever). For the past few days laryngitis and coughing have been persistent. Coughing gets worse when I try to use my voice. Sometimes cough produces white/yellow sputum. Sometimes it's just a dry cough. Physically I'm feeling okay, considering I'm tired from coughing.
I've been using/taking: Sudafed PE, Mucinex DM, Mucinex Fast/Max cough syrup, Mucinex Fast/Max inhaler, Rhinocort inhaler, atrovent inhaler, cold/flu tablets, cough/throat drops. The only thing that seems to help is the Mucinex nasal spray.