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What Causes Severe Coughing Up Of Mucus?

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Posted on Thu, 12 Jun 2014
Question: Lately I have had a nagging cough that seems that it is caused by post drip drainage and sometimes it the cause does not feels that way but it feels as if I am strangling on mucus or something. I have to constantly clear my throat and cough to get whatever down into my throat. It is a nuisance and happens throughout the day. It feels like a lot of work that I have not had to do before and it leaves my throat sore. Can you tell me what could be wrong?
doctor
Answered by Dr. Sumit Bhatti (1 hour later)
Brief Answer:
As below:

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

Thank you for your query.

1. The source of this mucus is usually an obstructed nose or inflammation in the sinuses. A plain Sinus CT should be done. A swab from the mucus drip should be sent for a bacterial + fungal culture and antibiotic sensitivity test.

2. Request your physician to add a mucolytic (such as bromhexine, ambroxol). The anti-allergic medication may be causing dryness in your throat, thereby worsening the symptoms. A trial with a nasal steroid spray should be done. Regular steam inhalation should be done. Anti-reflux medication may be required in addition.

4. Kindly let me know after two weeks with these medications.

I hope that I have answered your query. If you have any further questions, I will be available to answer them.

Regards.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
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Follow up: Dr. Sumit Bhatti (6 minutes later)
Thank you I will follow up in two weeks!

I took a recent trip to Manila, Philippines on a work assignment. Should I be concerned about these symptoms since it has been less than a week since I have returned to the US? I have not had these symptoms before even with bouts of allergy symptoms in the past.
doctor
Answered by Dr. Sumit Bhatti (6 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
As below:

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

Thank you for writing back.

1. A change of weather (humidity, temperature) may be a cause.

2. Get routine blood tests done.

3. Follow the trial of treatment mentioned above and inform me about any progress.

I hope that I have answered your query. If you have any further questions, I will be available to answer them.

Regards.
Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Sumit Bhatti

Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist

Practicing since :1991

Answered : 2685 Questions

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What Causes Severe Coughing Up Of Mucus?

Brief Answer: As below: Detailed Answer: Hi, Thank you for your query. 1. The source of this mucus is usually an obstructed nose or inflammation in the sinuses. A plain Sinus CT should be done. A swab from the mucus drip should be sent for a bacterial + fungal culture and antibiotic sensitivity test. 2. Request your physician to add a mucolytic (such as bromhexine, ambroxol). The anti-allergic medication may be causing dryness in your throat, thereby worsening the symptoms. A trial with a nasal steroid spray should be done. Regular steam inhalation should be done. Anti-reflux medication may be required in addition. 4. Kindly let me know after two weeks with these medications. I hope that I have answered your query. If you have any further questions, I will be available to answer them. Regards.