Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with Google
Suggest Treatment For Fever, Headache, Chest Congestion And Excess Nasal Discharge
Question: I have a fever, 100.5, headache, chest congestion, nasal discharge. Do I need antibiotics?
Brief Answer:
in most cases, this is not necessary
Detailed Answer:
HI, thanks for using healthcare magic
In most cases, the symptoms are due to a viral infection and antibiotics are not needed and not helpful
They would be needed if there was a bacterial sore throat (severe painful throat not improving), bacterial sinus infection or chest infection.
Treatment: (1) there are different formulations of Mucinex, if you are using Mucinex that contains guaifenesin, then this can be continued.
Guaifenesin is a mucolytic and would help to break up the mucus in the nasal passages and chest
If you are using the Mucinex with dextromethorphan only then this should be stopped, it is a cough suppressant and would not help get rid of the mucus. It can sometimes be combined with the guaifenesin, if this is the case, that is fine.
Other mucolytics are bisolvan, mucomyst
(2) A decongestant/antihistamine combination of medication would help with the nasal symptoms eg Benadryl d, Zyrtec d, Allegra d, Claritin d
(3) Fluids and rest
I hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions
Regards
in most cases, this is not necessary
Detailed Answer:
HI, thanks for using healthcare magic
In most cases, the symptoms are due to a viral infection and antibiotics are not needed and not helpful
They would be needed if there was a bacterial sore throat (severe painful throat not improving), bacterial sinus infection or chest infection.
Treatment: (1) there are different formulations of Mucinex, if you are using Mucinex that contains guaifenesin, then this can be continued.
Guaifenesin is a mucolytic and would help to break up the mucus in the nasal passages and chest
If you are using the Mucinex with dextromethorphan only then this should be stopped, it is a cough suppressant and would not help get rid of the mucus. It can sometimes be combined with the guaifenesin, if this is the case, that is fine.
Other mucolytics are bisolvan, mucomyst
(2) A decongestant/antihistamine combination of medication would help with the nasal symptoms eg Benadryl d, Zyrtec d, Allegra d, Claritin d
(3) Fluids and rest
I hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions
Regards
Note: For more detailed guidance, please consult an Internal Medicine Specialist, with your latest reports. Click here..
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Arnab Banerjee
Answered by
Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
