Why do I have a cough and congestion with greenish sputum even after taking medications for type B flu?

Question

Hello doctor,

I was diagnosed with type B flu eight days ago. I am not having a fever, body aches, or chills. Instead, I have a cough and congestion. My doctor prescribed me Tamiflu for the infection, considering my stomach issues. She told me I would probably need other medications like Mucinex and Tylenol for the flu. I still have a cough and congestion with greenish sputum, and there is no chest pain or issues with breathing. Is this typical for the flu to have a cough and congestion for more than a week? I worried whether it would progress into pneumonia or other infection.

Kindly help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and understand your concern.

Greenish sputum usually means a superadded bacterial infection along with the viral flu. You need proper prescription antibiotics to treat that, and unless you are put on an appropriate antibiotic, the infection will linger and may even worsen. If you want confirmation, you can even get sputum microscopy and culture with antibiotic sensitivity done. Please talk to your healthcare provider for a prescription antibiotic.

I hope I was helpful to you.

Thank you.