How to treat recurring cold and sneezing in a 32-year-old male?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 32-year-old male, and for the past three months, I have been experiencing recurrent cold and sneezing. These symptoms typically last for around two days before gradually resolving, but they keep coming back every month. Currently, I am using antihistamines to manage the symptoms.

I am finding these recurring symptoms quite bothersome, and they are affecting my ability to focus on my daily activities. Should I consider starting antibiotics for this issue, and what steps can be taken to address recurrent symptoms? Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Thank you for sharing your concerns.

Based on the information provided, it appears that your recurring symptoms are likely due to severe allergic rhinitis, possibly associated with sinusitis. I will simplify the chain of events leading to your symptoms:

When you are exposed to dust or irritants, your body's first response is often sneezing to expel the irritants. If this is not effective, the nasal mucosal cells begin producing excess mucus to trap the irritants. This excess mucus can lead to a feeling of a lump in the throat and a constant need to clear it. Chronic nasal inflammation can affect the Eustachian tubes, which connect the nose to the ears.

When these tubes become inflamed, they may not function correctly, leading to sensations of ringing in the ears, muffled sounds, and sometimes reduced hearing. Long-term nasal inflammation can also block the sinuses' outflow tracts, causing mucus to collect and potentially become infected. This can result in pressure headaches around the eyes, forehead, and cheeks, as well as swollen glands.

You have been experiencing these symptoms for three months, but I am unsure if you have followed a specific treatment plan recommended before considering surgery. A treatment plan is typically tailored to your symptoms and follows guidelines for managing both allergy and sinusitis.

I suggest you take the following medications:

Tab Sinarest (Paracetamol, Chlorpheniramine, and Phenylephrine) or an equivalent medication. Take one tablet twice a day after meals, 12 hours apart, for 15 days.
Tab Allegra M (Montelukast and Fexofenadine) or an equivalent medication. Take one tablet twice a day after meals, 12 hours apart, for 15 days.
Tab Zerodol TH 4 mg (Aceclofenac and Thiocolchicoside) or an equivalent. Take one tablet twice a day after meals for five days (only if you have a headache).
Tab Clarithromycin 500 mg. Take one tablet twice a day after meals, 12 hours apart, for 15 days.
Duonase nasal spray (Fluticasone and Azelastine) or an equivalent. Administer two puffs in each nostril twice a day for three months. Avoid inhaling while spraying the medication.
Tab Mucomix (Acetylcysteine) 600 mg or an equivalent. Take one tablet twice a day, 12 hours apart, after meals for one week.
Tab Wysolone (Prednisolone) 10 mg. Take one tablet after breakfast for one week.

Consult your specialist doctor, talk to them, and then take the medications as per their advice. I also suggest you try the following:

Wear an N-95 mask at all times to prevent dust and irritants from entering your nose. This is crucial for effective treatment.
Perform steam inhalations with plain water three to four times a day.
Practice saltwater gargles eight to 10 times a day for one month.
Avoid smoking and alcohol consumption, as they can slow down mucociliary clearance mechanisms.

I suggest you strictly follow all precautionary measures for maximum relief. Medications will be most effective when coupled with these precautions. There is no need to worry; with proper adherence to the advice given, your symptoms should gradually improve, and you will recover over time.

I hope this helps.

If you have further questions or need additional information, please do not hesitate to reach out.

Thank you.