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Family Medicine (Expert Forum)
Hacking cough, sore throat... No ideas!
Answered by
Kevin Pho, MD - Internal Medicine
KevinMD.com
Questions in the Family Medicine forum are answered by Dr. J.M. Keyes. Topics covered include general health issues, adolescence, babies, child health, eating disorders, fitness, immunizations and vaccines, infectious diseases, medical tests and procedures, and senior health.
Hacking cough, sore throat... No ideas!
by Jamie.T, Jul 10, 2007 12:00AM
Hi,
I have no idea about what I have but I don't think its serious. Here is some info:
I suddenly woke up with a hacking cough (I've been coughing a lot)
There is sometimes phlegm (spelling?) but I am almost positive it is clear, no color
My throat is also quite sore, but not always
I have had this now for almost a week. It may be getting a little better but I'm not sure.
I think it could be acid reflux or nasal drip, but I am not sure.
I am 18 years old and male. I also smoke, but only maybe 2 cigarettes per day and for maybe 10 months or less. I really don't think that has to do with this.
Please can someone help? I am going to go to the doctor if this isn't better in a couple days but I would really appreciate guidance.
If you have questions I am more than happy to supply more information.
Thanks so much for your time.
I have no idea about what I have but I don't think its serious. Here is some info:
I suddenly woke up with a hacking cough (I've been coughing a lot)
There is sometimes phlegm (spelling?) but I am almost positive it is clear, no color
My throat is also quite sore, but not always
I have had this now for almost a week. It may be getting a little better but I'm not sure.
I think it could be acid reflux or nasal drip, but I am not sure.
I am 18 years old and male. I also smoke, but only maybe 2 cigarettes per day and for maybe 10 months or less. I really don't think that has to do with this.
Please can someone help? I am going to go to the doctor if this isn't better in a couple days but I would really appreciate guidance.
If you have questions I am more than happy to supply more information.
Thanks so much for your time.
Doctor's Answer
by Kevin Pho, MD, Jul 11, 2007 12:00AM
, Jul 11, 2007 12:00AM
Infection would be the leading possibility. I would expect a chest x-ray to rule out a pneumonia as well as possible blood tests to further elucidate the cause.
Assuming infection has been ruled out, other possibilities can include post-nasal drip from rhinitis, GERD, or asthma. If these options are considered, appropriate testing (i.e. allergy testing, pulmonary function tests, upper GI series/24-hr pH study) can all be considered.
These options can discussed with your personal physician.
Followup with your personal physician is essential.
This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.
Kevin, M.D.
kevinmd_
Assuming infection has been ruled out, other possibilities can include post-nasal drip from rhinitis, GERD, or asthma. If these options are considered, appropriate testing (i.e. allergy testing, pulmonary function tests, upper GI series/24-hr pH study) can all be considered.
These options can discussed with your personal physician.
Followup with your personal physician is essential.
This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.
Kevin, M.D.
kevinmd_
Member Comments
by Fluffymould, Feb 12, 2008 11:56AM
A related discussion, Very sore throat was started.
by jessicayounggg, Dec 31, 2008 03:06AM
A related discussion, i have very constant severe nose bleeds, very sore throat and hacking cough, ear ringing and aches and pains. what could it be! was started.
