Brief Answer:
Could be sprain/strain; get cough suppressant with codeine

Detailed Answer:
Hello and welcome,

I am sorry you have been sick so long! Coughing can cause musculoskeletal injuries, even rib fractures sometimes. You may have strained a muscle or tendon, which you are helping support by pressing.

If your cough is productive of discolored sputum (not just when you get up after resting), and if you have a fever, then an antibiotic may help speed your recovery. Without those symptoms though, it is probably caused by a virus.

I recommend you talk with either your doctor or go to an urgent care clinic to get a narcotic based cough suppressant. Codeine is a very good cough suppressant, so a cough syrup with codeine in it can help a lot. That is the one thing I think needs addressing right now. And it isn't sold over the counter so you will have to go through a doctor to get a prescription.

I hope this information helps and you are feeling better soon!

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