I have had thick mucus for a long time. Mucinex D is the only thing that keeps my sinuses clear. I?

If you take it to long, it can have a rebound effect.

January 7, 2018 -- Thank You Thank You Thank You Dr. Laurie Mc!!

In past years I have always come down with a server sinus infection (usually from the middle of November until February). Last year my doctor told me to starting taking Mucinex to keep my sinuses clear and clean. I take one every twelve hours and have no side effects.

For the first time in my life I have not had an upper respiratory infection during the Fall and Winter. Apparently, it is more severe this year than the last few years as my friends are all sick with it and telling me it hangs on and on with a cough, followed by numerous doctor visits.

I am so thankful for this knowledge. I am a breast cancer survivor and have a low-tolerance immune system, so anything that helps make me grateful for the advice.

I see your question was asked 4 years ago, but I, too, had thick mucus, caused by my COPD. (I had bronchial asthma as a very young child, later in life diagnosed with emphysema.) I, too, take Mucinex regularly. Yes, I do think it affects my bowels, but it seems a small price to pay for keeping my lungs relatively clear. Also, I never have a problem with constipation! :)

Anyone with chronic sinusitis and/or unusually thick mucus should talk to their ENT about a possible MRSA infection in the sinuses. Particularly if the infections and/or mucus has been a long-term reoccurring problem. MRSA infection of the sinuses is being found as one cause for these symptoms, and will not resolve with regular treatments, and/or medications due to MRSA's resistance to the average antibiotic. MRSA is may also be the reason for long-term thickening of the mucus. Ask that your mucus be cultured for MRSA.

I am not a doctor, however, I was diagnosed w/COPD
4 years ago and have had many bouts w/lung complications. If you are continually battling a build up of mucus, you should be checked out for COPD. Mucus build up is the main culprit of COPD. I use a nebulizer w/albuterol sulfate inhalation solution every 4-6 hours. I am also on a 10mg daily dosage of Prednisone for maintenence. I would not use any over-the-counter drugs for any length of time over how its prescribed. Feel better.

Hi JEPALS,
I must agree with PoisonAlice on this.

People who have a chronic pain condition, called fibromyalgia, take Mucinex daily with no ill effects, but I do not know if you should be taking it daily, perhaps you should consult with your doctor regarding daily use of Mucinex. I'm sure it works great and thins out your mucous, but there may be other things to try that are safer, such as saline solution. Have you ever tried saline? It's safe to use daily, and it thins mucous as well. But one must use it in a certain manner. If you want to know how to use it, just post a comment right here, and I can tell you. (It's a bit gross, but I'm happy to share it if you want to know. My husband uses it daily, with great efficacy.)
Best wishes,
Lara

HI J- This is a good formal answer I gathered from several sources:

This medication is used for the temporary relief of coughs caused by the common cold, bronchitis, and other breathing illnesses. This product is usually not used for ongoing cough from smoking or long-term breathing problems (such as chronic bronchitis, emphysema) unless directed by your doctor. Guaifenesin is an expectorant. It works by thinning and loosening mucus in the airways, clearing congestion, and making breathing easier.
If you are self-treating with this medication, it is important to read the package instructions carefully before you start using this product to be sure it is right for you.