<s>[INST] Ive had a cough for about 20 days and doesnt go away i went to see a doctor , i was diagnosed with upper respiratory infection and given antibiotics and inhaler how ever that was 10 days ago and nothing seems to be working. I still have this dry cough with real salty taste in my mouth. What should i do i can not sleep at night due to the cough and practicly lost my voice [/INST] Thanks for your question on HCM. Since you are diagnosed with URTI and not improving try to follow these steps simultaneously. Only antibiotic will not work. You have to follow these simultaneously. 1. Avoid oily and spicy food. 2. Drink plenty of fluids. 3. Warm water gargles 5 - 6 times a day. 4. Start macrolide group of antibiotic. 5. Start antihistamine and anti inflammatory drugs.  Twice daily.If not improving after 5 days of above mentioned treatment,  get done chest x ray to rule out lower respiratory tract infection ( LRTI ). </s>