What do I have?

[Jessi]

I feel really bad.I have a running nose, my ribs hurt when I sneeze or blow my nose and I am coughing up what seems like a lung.(I am coughing up alot of mucus...sorry if that is too much info for some.)

I think it's a cold/sinus infection. Anyone have any ideas what this is and anything I can take to clear it up so I don't feel like this?:sad:

[chitownmelli]

You know, my grandma who is a nurse by trade, keeps pushing Mucinex D on all of us lol! She said it is awesome, and she's not really one to suggest OTC's. When you get all that yuck in your chest to start coming up more freely, you will probably start feeling a bit better. I would know a little something about that as I have had pneumonia plenty of times in my life.

Hope you feel better soon :) Take care of that cough!

[jen276here]

Not a Dr., but sounds like a bronchial infection. You may need to see a Dr. Your ribs may hurt from the excessive coughing and sneezing. I'm not a huge fan of medicines because I think many mask symptoms and can actually prolong them. Bronchial infections do not always need antibiotics either as many are viral, not bacterial. But if you are having any trouble breathing you may need a breathing treatment or an inhaler until it subsides. I recommend lots of fluids and as much rest as possible, maybe some tylenol to ease the rib pain. If you don't feel better in a few days or if symptoms get worse, definitely see a Dr.

Hope you feel better soon!!!

[Jessi]

Thanks ladies! I was actually thinking of getting Mucinex D on Thursday when we got paid. My mom had 2 Mucinex D left and gave them to me today. so I will take them until Thursday. I hope that helps. I have heard that it works awesome. I guess we will see!

[joshmamabear]

if it is just a viral infection, it will be self limiting and may clear up with supportive management as suggested above. Make sure to take lots of natural fruit juices and water to loosen your secretions and make them easy to expectorate. If symptoms persists accompanied facial pain in maxillary sinus area and moderate to high grade fever, it may be bacterial infection that warrants treatment with antibiotics. Call your primary for an appointment or if the nurse will call in a prescription for you.

I hope you feel better soon. Take care.