<s>[INST] My husband started with a back ache over a week ago and the a soare throat went to the doctor and the doctor said it was a virus with no blood work. He was told to take 3000 mg of vitamine c for two days and take over the counter cold medicne. He is still coughing and hacking and his back still hurts. He has been coughing up flem. [/INST] Thanks for your question on Chat Doctor. I can understand your concern. In my opinion, he is mostly having post infectious bronchitis. His backache is mostly due to viral infection. Bronchitis is common after viral upper respiratory tract infection (URI). And this is the reason for his constant cough and phlegm. So consult pulmonologist and get done clinical examination of respiratory system and PFT (Pulmonary Function Test). PFT will also tell you about severity of the disease. And treatment of bronchitis is based on severity only. He may need inhaled bronchodilators and inhaled corticosteroid (ICS). So better to consult pulmonologist and discuss all these. Don't worry, he will be alright. Hope I have solved your query. I will be happy to help you further. Wishing good health to your husband. Thanks. </s>