I have a cough with secretions every time I eat. What should I do?
33-year-old woman
I have secretions in my lungs/throat that make me cough as soon as I eat something, should I see a doctor? My breathing is normal the rest of the day, I don't cough at all. It seems to be worse when I eat or drink very sweet things. Also, it comes on at times like during cold season, but not consistently. Should I take pumps when it happens (I only take them when I need them, quite rarely, when I'm exercising) or allergy pills or stop a family of foods?
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Laurie Hudon Germain · 4 years ago
Hello,
Thank you for your question! In order to better advise you, I would need some additional information
How often does it happen (how many times a day/how many times a week)?
Would you say your cough is dry or oily?
What time of day does it happen the most?
Does it occur after eating food or while eating?
Do you have any allergies to medications? Are you pregnant or nursing? Do you smoke? What other medications do you take on a regular basis (including over-the-counter medications or natural health products)?
This information will help me to better advise you
Thank you!
Sébastien Larose, pharmacy student
Under the supervision of Laurie Hudon-Germain, pharmacist
33-year-old woman · 4 years ago
It happens about once or twice a day, quite a bit every day, right after lunch or dinner or if I have an evening snack. It's more frequent in the evening.
I don't know if it's a wet cough, but it feels like my lungs are congested, like there's mucus bothering my breathing and it won't pass.
I have no known allergies to medications, I am not pregnant or breastfeeding and I do not smoke. The medications I take on a regular basis are Alysena and Concerta.
Thank you for your help!
Laurie Hudon Germain · 4 years ago
Thanks for the clarification!
Have you ever tried a product/method to treat this problem?
If so which one and was it effective?
Thank you for your answer!
Sébastien Pharmacy student
Under the supervision of Laurie Hudon-Germain, pharmacist
33-year-old woman · 4 years ago
No, other than not eating when I'm with people to avoid the annoying cough. Otherwise I cough until it passes. I'm not sure what really causes it and what I could do about it.
My mom always tells me to take Reactins or pumps, but it's not asthma, so I'm not sure.
Laurie Hudon Germain · 4 years ago
Thank you for your detailed response!
Given the onset of coughing after eating and the greater severity of the condition in the evening, it is possible that this sensation is due to gastroesophageal reflux. You may want to try to avoid spicy foods, alcohol, coffee and fatty foods (such as fast food) that can contribute to acid reflux
In terms of medications, you could try Zantac (or Ranitidine) 150 mg twice a day, morning and evening, 30 minutes to an hour before meals. You may want to try this medication for one to two weeks, as it is available over the counter in pharmacies
If the symptoms persist or worsen, I suggest that you consult your doctor
I remain available if you have any other questions.
Sébastien Larose, pharmacy student
Under the supervision of Laurie Hudon-Germain, pharmacist
33-year-old woman · 4 years ago
Thank you so much for your help :) I will try this!
33-year-old woman · 4 years ago
Hello,
I went to the pharmacy and the technician on the phone told me that Zantac had been recalled by the company and that it is completely off the shelves. She told me that Pepcid was suggested as an equivalent. However, I could not find anyone to help me there. There was an original strength, a maximum strength and chewable tablets. I took the original strength. So I was wondering, did I take the right thing? And, should I take it twice a day, or just once?
Thank you!
Laurie Hudon Germain · 4 years ago
Hello !
Zantac was indeed withdrawn from the market a few months ago, but several house brands have resumed marketing it. If your pharmacy didn't have it, Pepcid is indeed a good alternative. At the original 10mg strength, I suggest you start with 1 tablet twice a day 30-60 minutes before breakfast and dinner
I hope this answers your question!
Laurie Hudon-Germain, pharmacist
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