How to manage coughing, sneezing, and shortness of breath?

Question

Hi doctor,

I have been experiencing coughing, sneezing, watery eyes, and occasional shortness of breath for a long time. Last year, I had my blood report checked, and it showed high levels of RDW and eosinophils. Sometimes, I experience allergic reactions on my skin in the form of skin rashes, and other issues like tonsil problems are also present. What could be the solution?

Answer 1

Hi,

I am here to help you with your health queries.

I read about your concern in detail.

Your eosinophil count is high based on your history. Your presentation suggests allergic bronchitis or an upper respiratory tract infection. Your workup should be done as follows:

Auscultation
Complete Blood Count (CBC)
Chest X-ray
Spirometry, if needed, to assess severity and determine the management plan

For allergies, you should be given a strong antiallergic medication like a combination of Fexofenadine and Montelukast for ten days. For rhinitis, you can use an Oxymetazoline nasal spray for three days. Additional recommendations include:

Avoid excessive spicy foods.
Perform steam inhalation three times a day.
Gargle with salt water.
If bronchoconstriction is present (determined by the above investigations), a bronchodilator might be needed.
Take one teaspoon of turmeric powder with hot milk daily.

Consult a pulmonologist for an examination and discuss my response with them. Please provide your reports for further comments.

Looking forward to your response in order to help you.

Thank you.