I am icing a tender spot on my rib I received from coughing out a cold from overseas (my sister and her family came from Wales). Are there foods (and liquids... I am quickly beginning to dehydrate because of heavy expectorant and mucinex) available that respond to British colds better than American foods? I have tried British tea and that seemed to work well. I have washed everything with soap and water and continue to do light exercise and work. Can I do anything with food and drink?
Hi Dear, Welcome to Chat Doctor. Understanding your concern. As per your query you have symptoms of tender spot on the ribs with severe cough which is due to upper respiratory tract infection, chest infection, acid reflux, and it could be strep throat infection. Need not worry about it. You should visit ENT specialist as well as chest specialist once and get some routine blood investigation done along with chest x-ray. Go for thorough examination. Take diet rich in multivitamins. Gargle warm saline rinses. You should put orogenic ear Chat Doctor.  Apply mist humidifiers in room. An anti-allergic, bucolic agent will help to reduce discomfort. You should take steam inhalation several times a day through the nose and mouth will help to relieve congestion. Avoid carbonated beverages. 