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What Causes Severe Productive Cough With Green Mucus?

Posted on Thu, 31 Mar 2016

Question: I have coughed up green mucus for several months, taking 4 very strong antibiotics. I may have relief for a few days but it continues to come back. I saw an ent specialists and gad a cat scan of sinuses and go Monday for results. In the meantime, I started having severe green drainage and coughing up mucus 4 days ago. I called dr for another antibiotic. Should I start something now or wait another 3 days until I see the specialist??

Answered by Dr. Shafi Ullah Khan (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Chronic sinusitis likely, antibiotics can wait

Detailed Answer:
Thank you for asking

I read yoru question and i understand your concern. Coughing up green mucus for months is a chronic upper respiratory tract infection most likely chronic sinusitis. CT scan of sinuses will tell the difference. If you are not febrile,dont use antibiotics and just take some decongestants and home remedies till you see your doctor again.

I would also suggest chest radiographs and blood work up to rule out lower respiratory tract infections and sputum examination if possible to try to find out causative organism.

I hope it helps. Take good care of yourself and don't forget to close the discussion please.

Regards
Khan

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

Follow up: Dr. Shafi Ullah Khan (18 hours later)

Thank you for saying antibiotics are not necessary at this time. taking musinex, sudafed and Advil sinus. The green mucus from blowing my nose has had blood in it the last few days.

Answered by Dr. Shafi Ullah Khan (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
No worries, supportive care only

Detailed Answer:
Thank you for getting back to me

Forceful nasal blows may cause some blood tinge in mucus so no worries for that. Just continue the supportive care and hope for the best. It self resolves in a week or two at most.

I hope it helps.
Regards
Khan

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