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What Causes Soreness In The Face, Ear Congestion And Dry Cough?

Posted on Tue, 22 Nov 2016

Question: My son is in college. He is never sick but called me 3 days ago feeling very weak and conjested. His face hurt and ears were full.His school nurse told him to get some Flonase and allegraD .He has been taking that and the next day had to get some cough syrup because he told me his whole chest and back hurt due to it being such a dry cough.He didn't sleep last night at all because now his jaws hurt and he said when he try to eat he has a acid taste in his mouth.He went back to the clinic and they gave him a shot of a muscle relax or and benidril. He has missed his classes and been resting for now 4 days.I think he needs to see a Dr.What do you think?Wouldn't he benifit from antibiotics.

Answered by Dr. Satvinder Bakshi (12 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
He should see a doctor

Detailed Answer:
Hello

From the symptoms which you have told it looks like he may be having a flu, however since he has also started coughing, it is likely the infection is spreading in the lungs and the best thing would be to meet a doctor.

I am not sure on the antibiotics, this has to be decided only by examining the patient. In my patients I normally would not start antibiotics when i suspect a normal flu. However in patients with high grade fever, or yellow colored sputum I would start antibiotics.

Please ask him to take steam inhalation 2-3 times a day, keep himself hydrated and drink lots of water. Taking adequate rest will definitely help him.

In the mean time he can continue with allegra tablet and take tablet paracetamol 500 mg 2-3 times a day for the fever and body pain.

Take care, hope he gets well soon

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. REMY KOSHY

Follow up: Dr. Satvinder Bakshi (29 minutes later)

Thank you.Its hard trying to figure out if he is getting the best care.The jaw soreness really worried me.He told me the nurse said she sees this often Beaune kids get stressed about school.My son said he is not stressed about school.She said lots of students get tmj.Anyway he is in New Orleans and I did tell him to steam and drink lots of water and hot teas.I sent him a care package but it has not arrived yet .I'm in Ca.He is heathly all the time.He works out daily and eats a good diet.He also does not smoke or drink alcohol.I told him to ask his professors for a reffural for a good md.

Answered by Dr. Satvinder Bakshi (10 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
You have done the right thing

Detailed Answer:
Hello

I am very happy to see your presence of mind, you have given him the right advice and care. good job!

The symptoms are not likely to be due to stress and it would be advisable to meet a doctor.

Please tell him to continue the steam inhalation.

Regards

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. REMY KOSHY