Hello, I am 53 years old, non smoker. always been fit, however, after returning from a holiday in Majorca 5 years ago i got a chest infection with a cough, Since then I have had regular chest infections and received antibiotics from my doctor, on ocassions i have had to take a second lot of a different type as it does not clear. Sometimes it could be a couple of weeks later and it all starts again. I have cough on a daily basis. The doctor said I have Asthma, however, i continue to bark like a seal and cough up phlem which is yellow/green, when this clears it is clear but continual. I take singular every night, seratide inhayler 250 - 2 puffs twice a day and a nasal spary twice a day. My doctorgave me a course of tablets for reflux in case this was the cause. I have just had a 3 week course of antibiotice to get me over Xmas, however, since they stopped i have been coughing very badly and bringing up phlem again, this has caused me to be off work. Doctor has given me a oxygen level test and that was normal. My peak flow is normally 450. This has been ongoing and is now affecting my quality of life and work. I would appreciate some advise please. Thankyou Karen.
Thanks for your question on Chat Doctor. I can understand your concern. By your history and description, possibility of post infectious bronchitis is more. Bronchitis is inflammation of airways. It is common after lung infection. It can cause persistent cough, phlegm etc. So better to consult pulmonologist and get done 1. Clinical examination of respiratory system 2. PUT (pulmonary function test). PFT will not only diagnose bronchitis, but it will also tell you about severity of the disease and treatment is based on severity only. Also take adult pulmonary vaccines like pneumococcal and influenza to prevent recurrent lung infection. Don't worry, you will be alright with all these. Hope I have solved your query. I will be happy to help you further. Wish you good health. Thanks.