Had/have the exact same thing. Cough has been lingering for a long time but getting better, albeit slowly. Am on week 7. The worst times for me are morning and night and if I'm outside on a cold day. In the mornings I cough until I release some of the phlegm that must build up during the night, but phlegm is not green. Not trying to be gross here but sharing the symptoms. If your phlegm is green, you should go to the doc because that means it is usually bacterial. If it is clear or creamy color, that usually points to viral and no antibiotics will make a difference. I've tried Robitussin DM cough syrup, suggested by a pharmacist, no luck. I've tried Delsyn cough syrup, a little better but once I start coughing, it is hard to stop it. Riccola cough drops work the best for me and frankly, hubby noticed a hot toddy made the most difference. Our hot toddys contain strong hot tea, a little burbon or Southern Comfort, lemon or lime juice and honey. Lately, I've found if I add a little peppermint extract it helps, too. Everything works together to sooth that little throat irritation that makes you cough and seems to settle it all down so you can relax and rest and stop the cycle of coughing over and over. Yes, my cough sounded like a whooping cough and I would cough until I gagged at times. But, hang in there, it will get better but sounds like you're like me and it will take a while. No, I never went to the doctor. I could tell from the symptoms that it was a virus and there was nothing the doc could do for me. Good luck and I hope you find something that works for you. Oh, and don't forget to Vicks your chest and put a warm towel on it! Several people have said Vicks on the bottom of your feet (with socks) will stop a cough but that didn't work for me (but I did try it!).
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