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What Causes Sudden Cough?
I developed a sudden cough after being in a dry environment for a few days, along came mucus, or phlegm. I don[t know what the differences are, but they first came out green and sticky, now it's clear, but still kind of thick. Cough hasn't gone away and with all the coughing, my throat is so soar. I don't drink any dairy products, or anything that can bring on mucus. I've been back home now and almost a week and it still hasn't gone away. What can this be??
Wed, 3 May 2017
Welcome to the healthcare magic platform,
I can understand your concern. Coughing up larger amounts of phlegm may indicate a developing viral or bacterial infection, sinus infection or lower respiratory tract infection especially if it is thick and turning yellow or green in color.
As per your case, you sputum was green but now its clear which indicates that your condition is improving. Just keep watching over other symptoms such as fever, chills, difficulty in breathing and wheezing etc. Follow the instructions as mentioned:
1. Use a humidifier in your home: Keeping the air moist can help loosen mucus and allow you to cough with ease. Dry environment will make the condition worse
2. Gargle with salty warm water
3. Use menthol crystals in water and take steam inhalation. Also apply Vicks balm on your chest area before going to sleep at nigh .
4. Do not over exercise and keep yourself hydrated by taking plenty of water
5. Take hot liquids such as hot tea with thyme leaves, green tea with honey to thin the mucous
6. Avoid smoking and alcohol
7. Take over the counter Dextromethorphan-guaifenesin 15 mg-200 mg/5 ml oral liquid (syrup). You can take 10 ml every 6 hours but do not exceed 40 ml/day.
Hope this answer is helpful. If your symptoms do not improve after following the aforementioned instructions then consult you physician for further management.
Regards,
Dr. Khoja
I can understand your concern. Coughing up larger amounts of phlegm may indicate a developing viral or bacterial infection, sinus infection or lower respiratory tract infection especially if it is thick and turning yellow or green in color.
As per your case, you sputum was green but now its clear which indicates that your condition is improving. Just keep watching over other symptoms such as fever, chills, difficulty in breathing and wheezing etc. Follow the instructions as mentioned:
1. Use a humidifier in your home: Keeping the air moist can help loosen mucus and allow you to cough with ease. Dry environment will make the condition worse
2. Gargle with salty warm water
3. Use menthol crystals in water and take steam inhalation. Also apply Vicks balm on your chest area before going to sleep at nigh .
4. Do not over exercise and keep yourself hydrated by taking plenty of water
5. Take hot liquids such as hot tea with thyme leaves, green tea with honey to thin the mucous
6. Avoid smoking and alcohol
7. Take over the counter Dextromethorphan-guaifenesin 15 mg-200 mg/5 ml oral liquid (syrup). You can take 10 ml every 6 hours but do not exceed 40 ml/day.
Hope this answer is helpful. If your symptoms do not improve after following the aforementioned instructions then consult you physician for further management.
Regards,
Dr. Khoja
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