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Suggest Treatment For Head And Chest Cold With Yellow Mucus In The Throat
Question: i have a head and chest cold with yellow mucus. Does this mean infection?
Brief Answer:
both bacterial or viral infection can cause these symptoms
Detailed Answer:
HI, thanks for using healthcare magic
Yes, it means an infection is present. Viral or bacterial infection would cause these symptoms with viral infections being more common than bacterial.
Either a viral or bacterial infection would cause the symptoms that you listed but with bacterial infections there tend to be a prolonged fever, symptoms are more severe eg persisting coughing and last for longer (more than 1 week to 10 days).
There may also be associated fatigue and malaise.
In viral infection the symptoms tend to resolve or improve significantly after 10 days and they are not as severe.
If you do not have a fever then viral is most likely unless you are a diabetic or have another condition that would affect your immune system.
You can continue the mucinex and cough meds if it is viral, with fluids and rest. Paracetamol or ibuprofen for any pain
If it likely bacterial (you have a prolonged fever, feeling weak and tired, persistent coughing) then you need antibiotics plus the above.
I hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions
both bacterial or viral infection can cause these symptoms
Detailed Answer:
HI, thanks for using healthcare magic
Yes, it means an infection is present. Viral or bacterial infection would cause these symptoms with viral infections being more common than bacterial.
Either a viral or bacterial infection would cause the symptoms that you listed but with bacterial infections there tend to be a prolonged fever, symptoms are more severe eg persisting coughing and last for longer (more than 1 week to 10 days).
There may also be associated fatigue and malaise.
In viral infection the symptoms tend to resolve or improve significantly after 10 days and they are not as severe.
If you do not have a fever then viral is most likely unless you are a diabetic or have another condition that would affect your immune system.
You can continue the mucinex and cough meds if it is viral, with fluids and rest. Paracetamol or ibuprofen for any pain
If it likely bacterial (you have a prolonged fever, feeling weak and tired, persistent coughing) then you need antibiotics plus the above.
I hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions
Note: For more detailed guidance, please consult an Internal Medicine Specialist, with your latest reports. Click here..
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
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