Multiple people in my family are obsessed with talking about their health issues and assorted gross problems. I have become pretty slick at changing the subject and/or sidling away. It's just what you have to do.

A few times when I was literally trapped, I just casually covered my ears and nodded while staring into space and thinking of my happy place. They don't even notice when they really get rolling.

Tell him to post I thread here on DCUM. I love phlegm! I could talk about it all day.

I'm sure he's just trying to push your buttons. One time my dad got on a kick of saying that his urine felt thick, just to drive us bonkers.

Well, it's hard to get old or be in bad health.

I wouldn't mind so much.

It is the way of the old people. My mom is going on and on about my Dad and his toilet issues, non stop. I mean in e-mails, phone calls, etc...Then about her constipation, then about her carpal syndrome which is a result of a huge lipoma on her back, carpal syndrome is in her finger. It is beyond annoying, but I try to tune it out.

Get him some listening to gargle with.

That or put him on an acid reflux diet.

You should just say it. Why subject yourself to that? Or better yet have your husband talk to him.

Don't reply at all. Change the subject, or walk away.

My FIL insists on talking to me about the excess phlegm he is experiencing. If you ever met me, after 10 minutes you'd know that I am a squeamish germophobe who does not want to discuss anything gross. FIL has known me for 17 years. I have exhibited zero interest in this topic. I barely respond to his phlegm-related conversational overtures. Yet he keeps bringing it up. I'm trying not to say "please STOP telling me about your phlegm!!!" but it's hard.

Vent over. Thanks for listening!