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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Why Would Antihistamines Be Prescribed For Diagnosed Lower WBC, Elevated Lymphocytes With Pussy Tonsils?

I had throat ache for 1 day and high fever the next 3 days, then cough for 2 weeks (no fever). Tonsils remained pussy, not swollen or painful, but 3 weeks after initial pain one tonsil started hurting again, so took 7 day course of antibiotics (Clarithromycin 500). After that, no more pain or cough, but tonsils are still pussy (now 6th week since start). A blood test yesterday showed slightly lower than average WBC and elevated lymphocytes (39%), so doctor assumed it is viral and prescribed antihistamines, Vit C and salt water gargles. I have no problem with the latter two, but don t understand antihistamines - I have no pain, no swelling, only occasional cough... what are they good for? Also, for the last 5 weeks, I have been feeling healthy - apart from the cough at the start.... good energy levels, working full time, sleeping well, doing sports. Is it possible I carried a viral infection for so long? Any advise on way forward?
Wed, 19 Mar 2014
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ENT Specialist 's  Response
WELCOME TO HCM.
U PROBABLY SUFFERED A VIRAL INFECTION OF UR THROAT THAT LATER EXTENDED TO UR CHEST GIVING U VIRAL BRONCHITIS. IT SETTLES DOWN SOON WITH MEDICATIONS. BUT THE COUGH OF BRONCHITIS TAKES AROUND 3-4 WEEKS TO FADE AWAY. TILL THEN V GENERALLY PUT OUR PT. ON ANTIALLERGIC MEDICATIONS TO EASE THE COUGH.WITH THHIS U CAN ADD AN ANTACID. IT WILL HELP IN REDUCING UR ACID REFLUX, IF ANY THAT LEADS TO PROLONGED COUGH.
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Why Would Antihistamines Be Prescribed For Diagnosed Lower WBC, Elevated Lymphocytes With Pussy Tonsils?

WELCOME TO HCM. U PROBABLY SUFFERED A VIRAL INFECTION OF UR THROAT THAT LATER EXTENDED TO UR CHEST GIVING U VIRAL BRONCHITIS. IT SETTLES DOWN SOON WITH MEDICATIONS. BUT THE COUGH OF BRONCHITIS TAKES AROUND 3-4 WEEKS TO FADE AWAY. TILL THEN V GENERALLY PUT OUR PT. ON ANTIALLERGIC MEDICATIONS TO EASE THE COUGH.WITH THHIS U CAN ADD AN ANTACID. IT WILL HELP IN REDUCING UR ACID REFLUX, IF ANY THAT LEADS TO PROLONGED COUGH.