Question
I have been coughing with phlegm for nearly a month, what should I do for treatment?
Answer
General treatment should include adequate rest, increased fluid intake, and avoidance of irritating substances. For patients with cough and phlegm, oral ambroxol hydrochloride or compound licorice syrup can be given to thin the mucus and relieve coughing. If accompanied by fever and elevated white blood cell counts indicating an infection, penicillin or cephalosporin antibiotics can be used for treatment. For mild cases, oral amoxicillin or roxithromycin can be taken. In addition, it is advisable to avoid using strong cough suppressants such as codeine.