Connect
Coughing in public
No matter how often I use airway clearance, I still cough continuously. Out of respect for other people, I no longer go to movies, concerts, shows etc. It's hard even going to dinner or to friend's house.
Today I was in the grocery store coughing and the woman approaching me from the other end of the aisle put a hand over her mouth and nose and wouldn't even look at me. Last month, as I was waiting for my deli order, I stood at least 10 ft behind someone stifling a cough, but started clearing my throat. She turned around angrily and said if I had wanted her to move, I should have asked her. My reply was, "I wasn't coughing to get you to move, I was coughing because I'm sick.. but don't worry, lung cancer is not contagious."
Has anyone else encountered rude people like this? I certainly understand people are afraid of catching something in this day and age, but it makes me feel like nobody wants to be near me.
Like
Helpful
HugInterested in more discussions like this? Go to the MAC & Bronchiectasis Support Group.
Connect
Yeah.....the sign would be especially helpful due to those who take a chance of being around and out with others, in public, with Covid.
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
1 ReactionDoes anyone take cough medicine regularly? My cough is so bad it takes my breath away. Sometimes It is an everyday thing. I take Robitussin but it only works for a couple of hours. Nebulizing usually does not bring anything up, but can help me breath better.
I was given a script for tessalon perles (benzonatate) by my pulmonologist for ONLY special occasions when you really don't want to have a coughing fit like in the movies, weddings, funerals etc. It's a cough suppressant so NOT what we want to do all the time since then we would never clear the mucus. I know some people think it's a bad idea, others swear by it. To be honest, I can't tell whether it really works, at least for me.
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
1 ReactionHave you been diagnosed with a respiratory issue? If not, you may want to get checked out by a pulmonologist. Regular use of cough suppressants sometimes make it harder to clear your lungs and could be making your situation worse.
I have bronchiectasis and Sjogren. Everything I do for the BE is cut short because of the Sjogren. Going to a new pulmonary doctor the end of the month hoping he has some better treatments.
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
1 ReactionHave you tried albuterol instead of cough medicine?
I have an albuterol inhaler which I have had to use more than I care to. I also use a nebulizer duo-neb and 7% saline.
It sounds like you would benefit greatly from finding a doctor or clinic that can do a full multi-disciplinary workup like Mayo Clinic. Have you considered trying that approach?
It probably would benefit me. I am just changing over my health insurance. A lot depends on that. I have had two pulmonologists so far. The first one retired and he discovered my conditions. I am seeing a new one the end of the month. Thank you for the advice. Have you had a workup at Mayo?
I am new to this group and interested in a multi-disciplinary workup. I have had two pulmonologists so far as well. How can I find out more about the treatment options at Mayo Clinic?