Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with Google
Suggest Treatment For Persistent Severe Cold And Nasal Congestion
Question: I developed a cold 7 days ago. I'm feeling better although I still feel congested and my nose is dripping. At times, my ears feel a little clogged. I saw a doctor who said my ears and throat look fine, though. I've noticed that my lung capacity doesn't feel as strong as usual. I normally can go jogging and do fine. However, when I'm just walking my dog, I get out of breath more easily now. How long will this take to get better? Will an expectorant help? I'm already taking an antihistamine. Thanks.
Brief Answer:
Expectorant will help only if cough bothers you.
Detailed Answer:
Hello dear XXXXXXX
Thank you for using HCM to post your question. I read it carefully and I understand your concern.
It seems like a viral infection. It is reassuring that you have confirmed that your ears are fine.
A viral infection needs approximately 2 weeks to get completely better and sometimes he cough may last even longer.
So symptomatic treatment is recommended.
In your case a decongestant would be helpful. You can also try nasal spry decongestants, but don't use them more then 5 days.
It is normal to have a bit shortness of breath when your nose is blocked and when you are not 100% fit. Give the body time to recover.
If you start having fever, getting worse with the breathing and chest pain, and if fatigue gets worse...these would be the symptoms that would indicate a complication of the viral infection into a pneumonia and you might need antibiotics.
An expectorant will hep only if cough bothers you.
Hope this is helpful.
Let me know if you need more clarifications. Otherwise please kindly close and rate the answer.
Regards,
Dr. Papaqako
Expectorant will help only if cough bothers you.
Detailed Answer:
Hello dear XXXXXXX
Thank you for using HCM to post your question. I read it carefully and I understand your concern.
It seems like a viral infection. It is reassuring that you have confirmed that your ears are fine.
A viral infection needs approximately 2 weeks to get completely better and sometimes he cough may last even longer.
So symptomatic treatment is recommended.
In your case a decongestant would be helpful. You can also try nasal spry decongestants, but don't use them more then 5 days.
It is normal to have a bit shortness of breath when your nose is blocked and when you are not 100% fit. Give the body time to recover.
If you start having fever, getting worse with the breathing and chest pain, and if fatigue gets worse...these would be the symptoms that would indicate a complication of the viral infection into a pneumonia and you might need antibiotics.
An expectorant will hep only if cough bothers you.
Hope this is helpful.
Let me know if you need more clarifications. Otherwise please kindly close and rate the answer.
Regards,
Dr. Papaqako
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. Raju A.T
Answered by
Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
