What Causes Exhaustion And Painful Ribs After Having Antibiotics For Sinus Infection?

Posted on Thu, 9 Oct 2014

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

Thu, 9 Oct 2014 Answered on

Mon, 3 Nov 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : I've had a bad flu since Sept 19. My Doctor prescribed amoxycillin and prednisolone. I have been taking the antibiotics but not the steroid (dont agree with them). My sinus infection & cough is almost gone after 8 days on amoxycillin, howver, i feel really exhausted and today have mild pain around my ribs...what should I do

Answered by Dr. Prakash H Muddegowda (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Take rest. pain due to cough

Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thanks for asking.
I am Dr. Prakash HM and I will be answering your query.
Looking at the present symptoms and clinical query, my opinion is as follows:

1. Steroid are given during infections to reduce excessive symptoms. Yes, it also affects immunity by reducing it.

2. Due to infection, you had severe cough. During cough, the chest muscles and abdominal muscles are used heavily. Steroids would have reduced cough, but as you are past the symptoms - not to worry.

3. Pain in the ribs is due to coughing. Mild cough will also increase pain in ribs. If cough is not there, pain will go off in 1-2 days. Rest is necessary.

4. If pain is severe, you can take NSAIDS painkillers. If cough is still present, you can do salt water gargling and take throat soothening lozenges. If cough still persists, antihistamine like cetrizine or codeine sulphate syrup will be helpful.

Hope it helps.

Any further queries, happy to help again.

Dr. Prakash HM

Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Ashwin Bhandari