Sorry if I sound rough, but is there really any point trying to solve
this in a newsgroup if in addition to a cough it actually burns when
you breathe? If it burns to breathe, there's something wrong with your
lungs. It's been a couple of days you said and the immediate burning
etc. that comes from breathing something harmful should go away in a
couple of hours at most in fresh air.

Where are you writing from? Is seeking medical attention an economical
or other problem? If not, get medical attention immediately, there's
no point waiting. Call an ambulance so you won't have to haul yourself
over to the hospital by yourself. They should be happy to take you.

Antti

OK, plenty of joking replies, but little to help the poster.

A few serious thoughts; the most irritating component of the fixer is the
acetic acid. Beathing fumes from that can cause some lung irritation. Also,
is there any possibility that the fixer was sulfurized, resulting in the
addition of sulfur dioxide fumes (not present in fresh fix) which can also
be an irritant.

Another consideration is if you are allergic to any of the components,
including sulfite. Allergies would cause a more severe reaction than
expected in the average person.

If you still feel ill after several days, it is time to see your doctor.
Also check the Ilford website to see if they have a health and safety office
you can call and talk to a toxicologist about this.

Good luck, and I hope you feel better.