How Can Wheezing, Cough And Cold Be Treated In An Elderly Patient?

Posted on Sat, 27 Jan 2018

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sat, 27 Jan 2018 Answered on

Tue, 21 Aug 2018 Last reviewed on

Question : I am in late, I hope, stage of flu. Heavy cough, and mucous. Dr recommended OTC cough suppressant /decongestant. Mucinex fast XXXXXXX night time cold & flu. After taking it, I have experienced wheezing in my chest. Similar to wheezing a had in early September when I had an analgesic pump inserted in my neck post arthroscopic rotator-cuff surgery. It was immediately removed because of that symptom. No pain but spooky. I am 83-y-o male.

Answered by Dr. Suresh Heijebu (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Require a short course of bronchodilator therapy

Detailed Answer:

Hello and Welcome to ‘Ask A Doctor’ service. I have reviewed your query and here is my advice.

As per your symptoms, the possibility of Asthma like symptoms ( adult onset type ) is very high.

This requires bronchodilator therapy at the earliest.

Chest x ray would be a useful screening modality.

These Asthma like symptoms are secondary to the chest Infection /flue like which you are currently experiencing.

Consultation with an expert chest physician will be of great help in instituting oral/inhalatory bronchodilator therapy.

Are you satisfied with my consultation ?
Is there anything else left to be discussed?

Hope I have answered your query.

Take care

Dr. Suresh Heijebu, General & Family Physician

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D