Doctor , I Recently Moved From A Tropical Climate Place
Medications and other helpful measures explained below
Detailed Answer:
Hello and welcome to Ask a Doctor service,
I carefully read your query and understand your concern.
Sore throat and nasal congestion for only a few days are very likely caused by a viral infection. Moving from one place to another exposes us to viruses we are not familiar with and cause infection.
To help with the symptoms you may take:
- ibuprofen 400 mg every 6-8 hours after food
- paracetamol 500 mg every 6-8 hours
- nasal lavage with saline solution (NaCl 0.9%) to help with the nasal secretions and congestion
- if you do not suffer from high blood pressure you may use Sudafed (pseudoephedrine), one tablet every 8 hours to help with nose congestion
- take zinc supplements or zinc lozenges
- drink plenty of water and eat frequent small amounts of food during the day
- gargle salt water (put a tip of a teaspoon of salt in a glass of water, do not make it too concentrated)
- honey may make the throat smooth and make it feel better.
You should feel much better in 2-3 days. Viral infections generally heal within a week. If you are not better in a total of a week or you have any worsening you will need a visit with your doctor to check your lungs and make sure if antibiotics are needed.
I hope I have answered your query. I remain at your disposal in case further medical assistance is needed.
Regards,
Dr. Antoneta Zotaj,
General and Family Physician