[58M] Experiencing mild cough with phlegm and voice loss

What might be happening

Based on the information you have provided, possible diagnoses include:

• Common Cold: This is a viral infection of your nose and throat (upper respiratory tract). It's usually harmless, although it might not feel that way. Many types of viruses can cause a common cold. Symptoms might include a runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, cough, sore throat, and mild headache.

  • Treatment for a common cold is usually focused on relieving symptoms and can include rest, staying hydrated, and over-the-counter cold remedies.

• Allergies: Allergies can cause a variety of symptoms such as a runny nose, sneezing, itching, rashes, swelling, or asthma. Allergies can play a major role in conditions such as asthma. In some people, severe allergies to environmental or dietary allergens or to medication may result in life-threatening reactions called anaphylaxis.

  • Treatment for allergies usually involves avoiding known allergens and taking medications to control symptoms. If your symptoms are severe, you may need to carry an emergency epinephrine shot for emergency treatment of a life-threatening allergic reaction.

• Laryngitis: Laryngitis is an inflammation of your voice box (larynx) from overuse, irritation or infection. Inside the larynx are your vocal cords — two folds of mucous membrane covering muscle and cartilage. Normally, your vocal cords open and close smoothly, forming sounds through their movement and vibration. But in laryngitis, your vocal cords become inflamed or irritated. This swelling causes distortion of the sounds produced by air passing over them. As a result, your voice sounds hoarse.

  • Treatment for laryngitis depends on the cause of the condition. Resting your voice and drinking plenty of fluids can help.

What you can do

1. Rest your voice as much as possible. Avoid shouting or whispering, as both can strain your voice.
2. Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration (avoid alcohol and caffeine).
3. Moisten your throat. Try sucking on lozenges, gargling with warm salt water or drinking a hot cup of tea.
4. Avoid decongestants. These can dry out your throat.
5. Avoid exposure to irritants. Smoke can worsen a cough and irritate your throat.

What you should look out for

Reasons to see a doctor more urgently:

• If your cough is accompanied by high fever, chest pain, or difficulty breathing.
• If your cough lasts for more than a week.
• If you cough up blood or thick, greenish mucus.
• If you have a history of heart disease and experience symptoms of a heart attack, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or arm or jaw pain.

Please remember that while I strive to provide accurate and helpful medical information, I am not a doctor. Always seek the advice of a healthcare professional for any health concerns.