I'm dealing with a cold that originally started in my sinuses, but now it's moved down to my chest. I've got a lot of chest congestion and it's getting hard to breathe at times. I'm constantly coughing up phlegm, and sometimes I just can't seem to get relief from the coughing. What can I do to alleviate these symptoms?

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

Dr Dr Khaleel Ur Rahim

General Practitioner

MBBS
1+ Yrs

Consult Now

I recommend taking an over-the-counter medication like Mucinex DM (guaifenesindextromethorphan) to help with chest congestion and to loosen mucus. The usual dosage is 1-2 tablets every 12 hours. Additionally, you can try using a humidifier to help with breathing and staying hydrated to help loosen the mucus. If symptoms persist or worsen, please seek medical attention.

Dr. Dr Khaleel Suggests...

Consult a Pulmonology Respiratory Medicine Specialist

Find a Pulmonology Respiratory Medicine Specialist

Answered 04/07/2025

More Pulmonology/ Respiratory Medicine Health Queries

View all

I'm hearing a whistling sound when I breathe out, especially in the mornings. Coughing happens too, but it's pretty rare. I've been taking monticope and using an aerocort inhaler for relief when the issues kick in. Can you help me understand why this is happening and if there's anything else I should be doing about it?

continue same

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

I recently tested positive and went through home quarantine, and I'm fully recovered now. I'm feeling normal overall, but I've noticed something a bit strange. Sometimes I see black particles in my phlegm, not entirely black, just some black bits mixed in. Is this something I should be worried about, or is it not a big deal?

Visit Physician for evaluation and appropriate management

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

I'm having trouble taking deep breaths lately. Sometimes I can manage it, but I mostly end up breathing through my mouth. This has been going on for about three weeks. I used to have other issues like stiffness in my fingers in the morning and pain in my right shoulder and upper arm, but those have either gone away or are getting better. I had a blood test back in January that showed high ESR and low platelets, but I feel okay now except for the deep breathing issue. What could be causing this?

do spirometry

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

Health Articles for you

View all

Covid

Understanding Omicron Symptoms and Differences

Know about Omicron, what it is, common symptoms, how it is different from variants and how to protect yourself from Omicron.

General Medical Consultation

What Leads To Signs Of Pleural Effusion And Types

Understand pleural effusion, its causes, symptoms, types, diagnosis, treatments, and recovery. Learn when to seek medical help and how Apollo 24|7 can assist.

COPD

COPD Overview: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

Explore Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), including its symptoms, causes, and treatment options. Learn how to manage this progressive lung condition and improve breathing and quality of life.

Pneumonia

Guide to Preventing Pneumonia In Cold Weather

Protect your lungs this winter. Learn essential tips for preventing pneumonia in cold weather, including hygiene, staying warm, and lifestyle choices.

Smoking Cessation

Guide to What Happens When You Quit Smoking

Discover what happens when you quit smoking—from immediate health benefits to long-term improvements. Learn the physical, mental, and emotional changes that support a healthier, smoke-free life.

Disclaimer: Answers on Apollo 247 are not intended to replace your doctor advice. Always seek help of a professional doctor in case of an medical emergency or ailment.