3 Month Old Cough, tried everything

[steelmagnolia976]

Ok, let's start. Approximately 3 months ago, I contracted a viral illness. I also have seasonal allergies, and asthma. I am also a smoker of 10 years.  I have tried everything OTC that I can get my hands on upon recommendation of friends, family, coworkers, etc. I take allergy medicine, cough medicine, inhalers, and GERD medicine. I do not have insurance, and am getting concerned with this cough of mine. I have been coughing approximately 3 months. My cough is productive and the phlegm is bright green. Sometimes (only 2 or 3 times so far) has blood in it. I have had minor chest pains recently, nothing that is constant, but comes and goes, gets worse when I breathe. It is very unnerving. I do not have insurance, and cannot get any more prescription medications, does anyone have any idea what OTC meds might help that I haven't tried? Or is this going to only get better by going to the Health Dept. (aka free clinic) and getting antibiotics? I really need help! Hope this was thorough enough for you. If not, feel free to ask any more questions and I will answer them to the best of my knowledge! Thanks again, Wendy

[PFBELL]

Well, I know you probably have heard this one before, but to start, I would make it to the clinic as soon as possible without hesistation. Yet, once you are done with that procedure I would do everything in arms reach to rid myself of cigarettes. Then I would decrease and eventually eliminate OTC meds from your regime. You have been taking too many and probably for too long.  I would begin changing my diet to organic and natural foods. If you eat on the run or just simply eat fast slow it down and at least chew 75 times to allow your food to slip to the back of your throat. This prevents your body from working so hard to process  food. If you do not have an issue with your stomach pressing into your esophagus, you can eliminate gerd by eating slower, staying away from food with lots of acid, eat  in a tranquil atmosphere and keep a prayer life and relationship that is meaningful with Jesus. I would spend the time researching some natural and healthier ways of treatment. Digestive problems  occur especially in smokers. The digestive system is nothing to play with.Alot of us take it for granted, not realizing the role it plays in our well being. Do all you can do by researching eating better and exercising to attain the best state of being you can and then let the doctors assist you by maintaining it. Listen to them and research the things they talk about to you and make the decision from there. Too much medicine is unatural and creates more health issues. When it is necessary do so, but if it can be dealt with without prescriptive and man made medications reap the benefits of a whole and healthier you. The body will heal itself if you will allow it. Hope you will be well .  Take care.

[gabrielsmommy]

i agree, the clinic.   ive been told that green colored phlegm is a sign of an infection.  also, a heath food specialist recommended that I put my son on this, maybe you should try it.  Its called Silver Soverign.  It is a sivler suppliment to boost your immune system.  good luck

[Toxicologist420]

See the clinic. I'm pretty sure if you have blood in your mucus from your lungs, OTC meds can't help anymore.