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What Causes Sore Throat, Cough, Congestion And Chest Pain?

Posted on Fri, 20 May 2016

Question: Hello, I was sick back at the end of January and was prescribed a zpack for a pretty serious cold. Sore throat, cough, ears & chest hurt, congested ect. My symptoms were not getting any better, they actually got worse. My phleghm was dark green, it has this horrible year and smell, I was unable to eat or drink. I called the Dr back and was out on Augmentin for 10 days, and after about 2 weeks that seemed to clear everything up but I'm still a bit stuffy & the phlegm taste and smell is still horrible... What could be the cause of this?

Answered by Dr. Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty (3 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Residual sinus inflammation...

Detailed Answer:
Hi

Thanks for posting the query

The symptoms experienced by you are the features of acute sinusitis. There could be residual inflammation in the sinuses causing the stuffiness, even after finishing the course of antibiotics.

My suggestions to you are:
1. To get an X-Ray of the paranasal sinuses done to rule out block in the sinuses.
2. You would require saline nasal spray and steroid nasal spray, to help in opening up of the sinuses and clearing up of the secretions.
3. Do steam inhalation 2-3 times a day.
4. Drink plenty of warm water.
5. Avoid chill food and beverages, coffee and smoking if any.

Hope this answers your query. Revert back to me if you have any follow up queries.

Regards
Dr. Naveen Kumar N
ENT and Head & Neck Surgeon

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. Yogesh D