All tests clear

[UglyMonster]

I have had a violent cough that produces clear sticky, stringy sputum (which dries a metallic silver in the sun) for 5 months.  It started with a high fever, night sweats, and sinus infection while I was in Japan.  They have ruled out SARS and all other infectious diseases (by a specialist). I have had multiple blood test (including TB tests), 2 sinus CTs, chest CT, 2 chest X-Rays, Upper GI, ultra sound, and a bonchoscopy, all of which were normal.  I am being bounced between 3 specialists (ENT, Pulmonologist, and Infectious Diseas) and 2 primary care physicans...none of which know what is causing the cough.  I have taken Phenegrgan w/ codeine, Guaifen (Duratuss),Singulair, Advair, Zithromax, Septra (had UTI at the time),Methylpred (MEDROL), Avelox, Hydrocodone, Prednisone, VI-Q-Tuss Syrup,Sulfamethoxazole, and Flonase - none of which have helped.  I am now taking:  Hydrocodone (which use to suppress the cough, but is no longer working...even at an increased dose), Astelin, Guaifenex G, Prednisone (again), and Protonix (even though GERD test are negative).  I have a follow up appointment on Monday with the Pulmonologist and a allergy test with an Allergist (4th specialist in one week!), but am getting very discouraged and frustrated.  I can no longer sleep because I cough ALL night (having to spit up the sitcky sputum; averaging 1 box of 250ct kleenex/week).  I have NO sinus congestion, but am starting to run a fever again and am losing my voice.  Cystic Fibrosis has been suggesed.  Any suggestions?  Please? ... with sugar on top??

[UglyMonster]

You are never going to believe this, but it seems that my cough has subsided after being involved in a car accident!  I am very thankful that something good came out of the wreck and am now on the road to recovery (hopefully all the fractures in my chest will be healed in the next couple of weeks).  Now if the cough will only stay away...

[National Jewish]

It sounds as if this may be caused by some type of unusual infection, perhaps endemic to the area where you spent time in Japan.  The first step should be to contact a Japanese infectious disease physician in the area in which you resided.  Your infectious disease doctor may be able to do this for you.  You should also determine if the specimens obtained from your tracheobronchial tree were cultured for local bacteria and fungi as well as for tuberculosis.  You may require the services of an Asian infectious disease specialist.