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What Causes Cold, Nasal Congestion And Ammonia Smell In Nose With Green Mucus Discharge?
Question: Good morning! I am a 42 year old female, in good health. No pre-existing conditions or diseases. Over 10 days ago, I started having what I thought were seasonal allergy symptoms but I'm pretty sure was a cold (congestion, runny nose, cough) as I noticed my son and many of his classmates had the same symptoms (preschool). I have not visited a doctor for this. It is 10 days later, no fever but green mucus discharge for days. Still some congestion in nose, cough is productive but still present. I can't distinguish any external smells but every now and then I get the sense of an ammonia smell in my nose. Is it possible for a virus to have turned into a bacterial infection? Thank you for any insight or suggestions. -XXXXXX
Brief Answer:
Secondary bacterial infection is possible
Detailed Answer:
Hi XXXXXXX,
Thanks for writing in to us.
I have read through your query in detail.
What you have written might hold good. There is every possibility that you can get secondary bacterial infection following a viral flu.
The flu attack makes the immune system weak and this favors a bacterial multiplication and delays recovery to normal health.
You need to take precautions from exposure to extremes of climate and dusty environmental conditions.
You can start taking antihistamines like benadryl and doing mouth gargles. If you are not improving over the next couple of days then a consultation with your doctor is suggested.
Wishing you good health.
Hope your query is answered.
Do write back if you have any doubts.
Regards,
Dr.Vivek
Secondary bacterial infection is possible
Detailed Answer:
Hi XXXXXXX,
Thanks for writing in to us.
I have read through your query in detail.
What you have written might hold good. There is every possibility that you can get secondary bacterial infection following a viral flu.
The flu attack makes the immune system weak and this favors a bacterial multiplication and delays recovery to normal health.
You need to take precautions from exposure to extremes of climate and dusty environmental conditions.
You can start taking antihistamines like benadryl and doing mouth gargles. If you are not improving over the next couple of days then a consultation with your doctor is suggested.
Wishing you good health.
Hope your query is answered.
Do write back if you have any doubts.
Regards,
Dr.Vivek
Note: For more detailed guidance, please consult an Internal Medicine Specialist, with your latest reports. Click here..
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj
Answered by
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