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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Persistent Cough With Thick Mucus Production In An Elderly Lady?

My mother is 90 and living in a nursing home. She has a cough and when she coughs she brings up loads of clear thick mucous sometimes enough to fill a small bowl. She recently started having trouble swallowing so the Dr. has recommended that all of her liquids be thickened and her food be served ground up. She has had several chest xrays and they didn t find anything abnormal. I am very worried what could be causing all of this mucous?
Fri, 18 Nov 2016
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Dentist,  's  Response
Hi Dear,

Welcome to HCM.

Understanding your concern. As per your query you have persistent cough with thick mucus production which is due to severe upper respiratory tract infection. I would suggest you to start with course of antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs. Avoid giving cold beverages. I would suggest you to consult ENT specialist without any delay . Doctor may order blood test , throat swab test or virus culture test. You should get an redone x ray of the chest. Doctor may prescribe antibiotics amoxicillin at least for 10 days along with mucolytic agents. Go for complete blood count. Doctor may also refer you to chest specialist of allergy specialist. You should take mast cell stabilizers to prevent from infection. You should avoid hot, sharp and spicy foods. For now do warm saline rinses , take rest.

Hope your concern has been resolved.

Get Well Soon.

Best Wishes,
Dr. Harry Maheshwari
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Ophthalmologist,  Dr. Ashok Kumar Dash's  Response
it is problem of senility. accumulation of sputum is due to age problem and posture. give benadryl expectorant and maintain posture in which she can expel more sputum.
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What Causes Persistent Cough With Thick Mucus Production In An Elderly Lady?

Hi Dear, Welcome to HCM. Understanding your concern. As per your query you have persistent cough with thick mucus production which is due to severe upper respiratory tract infection. I would suggest you to start with course of antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs. Avoid giving cold beverages. I would suggest you to consult ENT specialist without any delay . Doctor may order blood test , throat swab test or virus culture test. You should get an redone x ray of the chest. Doctor may prescribe antibiotics amoxicillin at least for 10 days along with mucolytic agents. Go for complete blood count. Doctor may also refer you to chest specialist of allergy specialist. You should take mast cell stabilizers to prevent from infection. You should avoid hot, sharp and spicy foods. For now do warm saline rinses , take rest. Hope your concern has been resolved. Get Well Soon. Best Wishes, Dr. Harry Maheshwari