[AllyOops!]

I am so embarrassed to start a thread on this! I feel like such a baby!

For the past 9 days, I've had what began as a possible sinus infection, mighta-been-a cold, think-it-was-a-flu and now a full-blown what-the-flock-is-this-mystery-virus? I be illin'.

I have labored breathing from congestion, a painful, deep chest cough, a bloody nose from tissue abuse and worst of all, a raw, sore throat that defies words. I can barely swallow and as of midnight, I lost my voice. I've never, ever completely lost my voice.

Here's where you come in! Do any of you have any tips on how to soothe a painful throat ache? I would appreciate any advice muchly.

I have tried Chloraseptic, only to have it burn as I choke. I have drank my own weight in piping hot tea, and am taking Promethazine (an anti-hystamine & cough suppressant) and Tylenol 3 under my Doctor's care for the accompanying fever I had for a few days. The throat pain, however, is unbearable. So much so that I cannot sleep and actually began crying. My lips are like two pringles and the inside of my nose feels like a triscuit. And I think I must have swallowed a cheese grater.

Is anybody else sick? I know poor Alisa has been battling the flu, but is anybody else going through the same symptoms that I am? This is really new to me, erego the panicked 4 a.m. post! This thing is hangin' on for dear life and only getting worse.

And in the way too much information department, a lovely bout of PMS to top it all off. I'm so tired and confused that any moment now I'm sure I'll shove a tampon down my throat and pour salt water up my..oh, nevermind. Nobody needs that imagery. Ick.

Let's just hope it doesn't gargle back.