Suggest Treatment For URTI, Cough, Redness In Throat And Congestion

Posted on Tue, 8 Dec 2015

Question: Over a week ago I was diagnosed with an upper respiratory infection, I was given antibiotics due to the doctor saying my throat was very red and thought something to be gong on. I completed taking the antibiotics and the cough pearls the doctor gave me due to my congestion and coughing. While on the antibiotics and cough pearls the sore throat I had became better and the urge to cough lessened. However, I have had contest for over a week, and the sore throat came back, I am a minister and so for the past few Sunday's as I preach I have lost my voice every time, so my voice seems to be fragile right now. My question is can the mucus still in my system (I also feel a nasal drainage in the back of my throat) cause this sore throat that I am experiencing. It seems that when I get up my throat is very sore, I cough and hack up as much mucus as I can it the soreness subsides a little, however, by night time my throat is very sore again. And suggestion for what's happening?

Answered by Dr. Dr. Michelle Gibson (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
oral antihistamine/decongestant combination, may need nasal spray

Detailed Answer:
Hi, thanks for using healthcare magic

Post nasal drip of mucus is a common cause of intermittent sore throat so it could definitely be contributing to your problem.

Using a oral decongestant/antihistamine combination may help (eg allegra d, claritine d, zyrtec d). These would be over the counter.
If on its own, this is not enough then nasal sprays may be needed eg nasonex, nasocort, flonase, rhinocort.

The spray may require a prescription if it is needed.

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