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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Cold Along With Dry Cough And Tightness In The Chest?

I ve had a varying cold for about a month. In the beginning it was a head cold with a moist cough. I seem to be over the head cold but the last 3-4 days I ve had a very dry cough, coupled with tightness in the center of my chest and my cough is aggravated by changes in temperature, and strong smells. I also get very out of breath when walking. I m not one for seeing a doctor for a cold, but I think it may be time. Never mind; didn t realize there was a fee for this service. I ll just call my doc. Thank you.
Mon, 9 Jan 2017
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Hi,

Cough may persist for up to 6 weeks after an acute cough/cold. The presence of a history of allergic symptoms (sneezing, cough, post nasal drip, nasal congestion) mean that it is possible that allergies may also contribute to your symptoms as well.

Treatment of allergies and cough/cold can over lap and may include anti histamine decongestant combination such as Benadryl D, Claritine D, Zyrtec D, Allegra D. In addition, a mucolytic to break up the mucus would help it to drain that is Bisolvan, Mucomyst, Guaifenesin. If there is no improvement, then antibiotics may be needed.

I hope this helps. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. Michelle Gibson James
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What Causes Cold Along With Dry Cough And Tightness In The Chest?

Hi, Cough may persist for up to 6 weeks after an acute cough/cold. The presence of a history of allergic symptoms (sneezing, cough, post nasal drip, nasal congestion) mean that it is possible that allergies may also contribute to your symptoms as well. Treatment of allergies and cough/cold can over lap and may include anti histamine decongestant combination such as Benadryl D, Claritine D, Zyrtec D, Allegra D. In addition, a mucolytic to break up the mucus would help it to drain that is Bisolvan, Mucomyst, Guaifenesin. If there is no improvement, then antibiotics may be needed. I hope this helps. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Michelle Gibson James