Suggest Treatment For Upper Respiratory Tract Infection

Posted on Sun, 9 Nov 2014

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

Sun, 9 Nov 2014 Answered on

Sat, 6 Dec 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : I have had a chest cold for the past two weeks. Yesterday and today I have had 5 or 6 episodes of an orange liquid running out of my nose. Is this anything to be concerned about?

Answered by Dr. Naveen (6 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Viral infection of the upper respiratory tract..,

Detailed Answer:
Hi

Thanks for posting the query

Going by your description, I am of the opinion that you are having viral infection of the upper respiratory tract.

As viral infection is self limiting, with symptomatic measures you will feel better and may not require antibiotics. Hydration is key for your problem.

My suggestions to you are:
1. Drink plenty of warm water.
2. Do steam inhalation
3. Try taking oral decongestants available OTC.
4. Avoid coffee/ chilled food/ beverages/ smoking.

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. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Naveen (9 hours later)

Thank you for your answer. I have not had another episode of the orange fluid, but this morning I coughed up sputum with blood in it. I have no fever, and do not feel terrible... just a little tired. Previously, I was coughing up quite a lot of green and gray gunk. This has thinned and lightened in color but again, this morning contained blood. Should I continue with a vaporizer and cough drops? Is the blood anything to worry about?

Answered by Dr. Naveen (37 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Blood tinged sputum following flu is normal...

Detailed Answer:
Hi

Thanks for writing back

Blood tinged sputum after an attack of upper respiratory tract infection is normal. This is due to break in the engorged blood vessels of the throat (following an infection) when you cough.

Please continue with the steam inhalation, saline nasal spray and the cough drops. Also, drink lots of warm water, this will give excellent relief.

Do not worry! There is nothing serious as per your symptoms and signs are concerned.

Hope, this clarifies your doubts.

Wish you good health and good luck.

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

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Shanthi.E