Brown Specks in phlem every morning (pic)

[Absentia]

This started about a year ago from every few days to now every morning between 6:00am-12:00pm.
I've been coughing up this almost clear sometimes yellow phlem with brown specks in it.
I'm a former smoker since the age of 17-26 now 27.
   I've asked my doctor and he doesn't seem to be to concerned about it but since it's been going on so long I've sorta reached my breaking point, with all the news coverage about cancer this cancer that it's turned me into I'm sure as my doctor sees it a hypochondriac.

Other symptoms include upper adominal lower ribcage pressure. (doc put me on donatol and a cilliac diet)
GERD treated with prilosec
Sudden quick pains and tighness in my chest
Shoulder pain which seems to be spreading top the rest of my back.

I just don;t know what to do at this point, I've started having panic attacks and am unable to sleep as I fear for the worst.
Do I go to the emergency room, get a second opinion, make another appointment and stay on my doctor?
thanks

I attached a picture of the stuff has anyone seen this before and what was the cause?

[crane1]

I am having the exactly same symptoms. Can you let me know how you got it cured. Its been 6 months since I have been facing this. Your reply would be really helpfull.

[cazzzab]

I have stuff that looks the same as this. What was your outcome? My doctor says its because I smoke and its just tar in the lungs. Hope all is ok with you but interested in knowing the outcome.

[tarirochi]

have nearly a problem like yours and have just joined the community to try and find out the causes and treatment. mine is not only in the morning but there always.  there is more productivity in the morning though just after waking up, and sometimes have some black or brown marks on it. no history of smoking, and i always have to clear my throat,  for nearly twenty years now. one doctor told me this is caused by  eating dairy products and yeast in our bodies from bread and related products. there is a history of asthma in my family so am thinking it could be related to that as well. stay strong. do not panic. lets keep searching for answers and good doctors who can tell us the solutions. i dont think you should worry that you will die. have lived with it longer than you, but admit it is a cause for concern.

[Irenak]

I would look for another doctor.  Look around, interview them and find one that will take you more seriously.  What you are experiencing is not normal.  In the meantime, get your fears under control.  They will only make things worse.  Stop worrying about things you have no control over.  You can handle it.  Address your fear of death.  You do have control over your doctor. You are not helpless in this department. Find one that is as concerned as you are.  Look at D.O.'s too. Seriously, relax. Eat right, don't party.  Drink only water, nothing else.  No matter what the deal is, take care of the basics first.  It is only common sense. If Dr's keep failing you, look at alternative treatments life homeopathy or acupuncture.