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What Causes Cough, Cold And Post Nasal Drip?

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Posted on Sat, 23 Sep 2017
Question: Good morning. I have been fighting off a cold for a few days. Last night I was getting a lot of post nasal drip. It kept me up most of the night. As of this morning, I lost my voice and having trouble swallowing. I drank a small glass of orange juice, but it made me cough and came right back up. I don't feel very good, but not feeling terrible. Symptoms: runny nose( not bad ) slight headache, trouble swallowing, and lost voice.
Thank You
doctor
Answered by Dr. Noble Zachariah (1 hour later)
Brief Answer:
Discussion follows

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Welcome and thanks for your query.
I understand your concern.
Most colds are due to a viral infection and are self limited.
In your case as the symptoms are getting worse in spite of symptomatic treatment, it is possible that you have caught a bacterial infection which sometimes follows a viral infection. If there is a bacterial infection you would require an antibiotic which is a prescription medicine.
It would be good if you have yourself examined by a doctor who will assess you regarding the infection and the need for antibiotics.

Do get back to me if you have further queries.
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
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Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Noble Zachariah

Internal Medicine Specialist

Practicing since :1974

Answered : 2319 Questions

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What Causes Cough, Cold And Post Nasal Drip?

Brief Answer: Discussion follows Detailed Answer: Hello, Welcome and thanks for your query. I understand your concern. Most colds are due to a viral infection and are self limited. In your case as the symptoms are getting worse in spite of symptomatic treatment, it is possible that you have caught a bacterial infection which sometimes follows a viral infection. If there is a bacterial infection you would require an antibiotic which is a prescription medicine. It would be good if you have yourself examined by a doctor who will assess you regarding the infection and the need for antibiotics. Do get back to me if you have further queries.