Is Production Of Greenish/brown Mucus From The Nasal Canal Mean It Is Bacterial And Should It Be Treated With Antibiotics?

Question : Hi, I have had what appears to be a viral infection of the upper respiratory system which started about six days ago. There was initially a slightly sore throat but it wasn’t very sore just dry and a bit sore. The nasal system was a bit congested, I had cough a bit which was dry at first and now is producing mucus.
I had a bit of fever mainly at night. The GP consulted said it was looking like a viral infection and not bacterial, nor was it a flu.
I am wondering if the production of greenish/brown mucus from throat and nasal canal means it is now more likely bacterial and should it be treated with antibiotics? I also now have discharge from the eyes which when dried leaves an unusual amount of dry discharge residue around the eyes.
I have on hand keflex, ciproxin and doxycycline 50mg. Which of these would be most suitable for treatment if recommended?

Thankyou.

Thanks Dr. Ditah,

Just now I had quite a severe nosebleed which lasted about 15 mins and was continuous. Could it be caused by the saline sprays and nose blowing? I believe that the nosebleed has mostly stopped after applying pressure?

What sort of steps should I take now? Is there potentially another cause?

Just as a follow up query with more information, I did try the saline spray with a few sprays each nostril and did spray a few times over the period of about 12 hours. Is this the most likely cause?

I tried to use the saline sprays to moisten the nasal canal but note that when dry, the saline spray leaves a crusty salt deposit so could lead to drying of the nasal cavity if used excessively?

Other possible causes are Vicks inhaler, also used. Another thing I used a few times was Beconase.


Thank you.

Thanks Dr. Ditah,

I just want to clarify that the bleeding was very rapid and needed about 30 sets of tissues at first. I did have an ambulance called and they applied heavier pressure which slowed the bleeding down a lot before I think it eventually stopped. The hospital was able to clean up the area and advise.

I do have a mild mid septal deviation on the left. I have not really had a nosebleed for many years and never of this severity. Is it common for the inflammation to lead to such a serious bleed?


Thankyou.

Ok thanks Dr. Ditah,

If you don’t mind I will keep this discussion open for another one or two days in case of developments before closing and reviewing.


Thanks for the advice and re-assurance.

Regards.