Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with Google
Suggest Treatment For Respiratory Tract Infection
Question: Hi I've had a cough for a week now along with some nasal congestion. When I breathe I can feel the congestion in my chest. When I cough, it seems to loosen up the congestion then it slowly seems to build up again causing more coughing. Do I need to see a doctor for this or just wait it out?
Brief Answer:
should resolve on own
Detailed Answer:
Hi, thanks for using healthcare magic
It is likely viral, most respiratory tract infections are viral and would resolve with symptomatic treatment.
Since you feel congested, you may want to try the use of a mucolytic agent. This means medication to break up the mucus in your nose and chest so that it can be more easily expelled.
Examples of mucolytics are mucomyst, mucotec, bisolvan, guiafenesin ( found in robotussin).
One of these can be used, they are over the counter medications.
In addition the use of a nasal decongestant, oral and/or topical may also help with the nasal congestion and coughing.
(coughing also occurs because of the nasal secretions dripping backwards down into the throat).
These would also be available over the counter.
Fluids (the help reduce thickness of secretions ) and rest are also important.
In most persons, this can last 1 to 2 weeks but rarely a cough due to viral illness can continue to 6 weeks in some persons.
I hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions
should resolve on own
Detailed Answer:
Hi, thanks for using healthcare magic
It is likely viral, most respiratory tract infections are viral and would resolve with symptomatic treatment.
Since you feel congested, you may want to try the use of a mucolytic agent. This means medication to break up the mucus in your nose and chest so that it can be more easily expelled.
Examples of mucolytics are mucomyst, mucotec, bisolvan, guiafenesin ( found in robotussin).
One of these can be used, they are over the counter medications.
In addition the use of a nasal decongestant, oral and/or topical may also help with the nasal congestion and coughing.
(coughing also occurs because of the nasal secretions dripping backwards down into the throat).
These would also be available over the counter.
Fluids (the help reduce thickness of secretions ) and rest are also important.
In most persons, this can last 1 to 2 weeks but rarely a cough due to viral illness can continue to 6 weeks in some persons.
I hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions
Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
