Suggest Treatment For Chest Congestion, Cold In A Diabetic

Posted on Tue, 3 Mar 2015

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

Tue, 3 Mar 2015 Answered on

Tue, 24 Mar 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : I am 69yo I have diabetes I have a cold and my chest is really congested an makes me very uncomfortable I feel the need for some relief is there anything that I can do since I don't have transportation?

Answered by Dr. Naveen (7 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Mucolytic and steam inhalation

Detailed Answer:
Hi

Thanks for posting the query

You would require the following measures to treat this problem:
1. Steam inhalation 2-3 times a day. Warm vapors will decongest the nose as well as the lungs.
2. Drink plenty of warm water.
3. Use saline spray as frequently as possible. Saline helps in reducing the nasal congestion and clearing of secretions if any.
4. Take mucolytic such as ambroxol or bromhexine (available under various brand names).
5. Avoid coffee/chilled food and beverages/smoking (if any).

Hope with the above measures you will feel better.

Revert back to me if you have any follow up queries.

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

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad