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Suggest Treatment For Cough And Sinusitis

Posted on Sat, 27 Dec 2014

Question: I have had a hacking cough for three weeks. Last winter the same thing happened but it did become much worse and I ended up on antibiotics for sinusitis. It starts with an increase in mucous production in my nose and lungs. I have used Flonase, Mucinex extra strength, and I have tried both Proair and Symbicort inhalers all without much success, I do take Claritin everyday. Environmentally I think our house is somewhat dry and we do have a wood burning fireplace. I do not smoke, no one in the house does. I'm 69 and in very good health otherwise. It is wearing me down and I sound awful! Any ideas? Thank you

Answered by Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty (39 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
I think you're suffering from Allergic Rhinosinusitis...

Detailed Answer:
Hi

Thanks for posting the query

After going through the query, I am of opinion that you could be suffering from Allergic rhinosinusitis. The cause of recurrence could be some allergen in the house which is triggering the attacks of allergy. It may be due to the smoke/dust from the fireplace. The hacking cough is because of the post nasal drip.

You would require an x-ray of the paranasal sinuses to confirm the diagnosis.

My suggestions to you are:
1. Do steam inhalation 2-3 times a day for 3 minutes. This will open up the clogged sinuses and clears the secretions.
2. Use saline nasal spray as frequently as possible.
3. Drink plenty of warm water.
4. Continue with Flonase nasal spray.
5. Ambroxol or Bromhexine would be a better option than Mucinex.
6. Keep your surroundings clean, change your pillow cover every night before going to bed.
7. Avoid chilled food/beverages and coffee (coffee increases the consistency of the secretions).
8. Avoid Claritin (this again adds on to the consistency of the secretions).

Hope I have answered your query. I will be available for the follow-up queries.

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

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj

Follow up: Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty (1 hour later)

Thank you very much. I will follow your suggestions. I could not find Ambroxol or Bromhexine in my current Drug book. Is that something OTC or would I need a Px?

Answered by Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty (14 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Bromhexine and Ambroxol are the name of the drugs

Detailed Answer:
Hi

Thanks for writing back

1. Bromhexine and Ambroxol are the name of the drugs which comes under various brand names. I'm sorry, online consultation doesn't allow me to quote brand names. It will amount to endorsement of the product. You can check online for the brand names.

2. In some countries it is available OTC. Both the medicines are safe with least side effects.

I wish you good luck and good health.

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

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj