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Bacterial or viral infection?
Started with a runny nose and sneeze and it got better over 3 days. But then developed cough that goes away and then comes back. I cough more in th cold than warm weather. Cough is dry . Other symptom is just feeling sleepier and tired than usual. Confused whether it's bacterial or viral infection? How to differentiate because one requires antibiotics and one just requires waiting.
Answers (28)
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Likely you are developing sinusitis with superimposed bacterial infection. You need proper consultation to get rid of your illness.
Next Steps
do a xray PNS view.
Health Tips
then get consultation
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Cough May not be respiratory in origin then
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If you are a Doctor (whichever Pathy) and you want to help your patients then your question is logical. But if you are a patient then please don't bother your head about this question (there are people to do it). You can consult a General Physician.
I gave you a detailed explanation because it is not always easy to find out whether your infection is bacterial or viral.
For research purposes you can get a throat swab for bacteria culture. If it is negative then you should go for a viral culture.(Even during Covid viral culture was not a norm).
In the meantime you should get your CBC and Chest X ray done.
A Simpler method is to start an antibiotic empiricaly (Amoxyclav is a good choice). If it doesn't respond then wait and watch.
Starting antiviral treatment is not logical for an upper Respiratory infection.
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Need few more details
Kindly consult
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Can help you with the next course of action and treatment plan. Would like to discuss in details. Kindly consult via whatsapp on nine zero two nine six zero zero four seven zero.
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Most likely you may have post infectious cough and fatigue which is usually seen after a viral infection.This may last for a few weeks.Continue with symptomatic treatment.
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Tab montek LC ONE at night for five days.
COUGH type
Dry
Or wet
???
Plenty of water n liquid luck warm..
Steam inhalation with Vicks or eucalyptus oil.
What makes a difference with type of cold?
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Can help you with your concern. Your concern need to be evaluated in detail with history and possible examinations. Can contact for consultation via chat
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Need few more details
Kindly connect
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Duration of the symptoms play a vital role in differentiating between bacterial and viral causes .
Viral infections are common in winter and can also be associated with allergy like symptoms such as runny nose and sneeze .
Sleepiness than usual is be to bodies copping mechanism to conserve energy to use it for healing your body .
Next Steps
For runny nose and sneezing try using levocetrizine or montelukast .
Try warm streaming to clear the airway
If the symptoms persist then consult for adding antibiotics for superadded bacterial infection.
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Mostly it seems allergic induced
You can take montair LC tablet at night
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I can assist with your concern by evaluating it in detail, including history and necessary examinations. You can reach out for a consultation via chat for personalized guidance. Please provide specific details about your issue, and I’ll ensure a comprehensive response tailored to your needs for effective resolution.
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Take appointment
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Dr. Shruti Goswami
General Physician
12 yrs exp
Pune
Need more information
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Dr. Shaikh Huzaif
General Physician
18 yrs exp
Aurangabad
Please consult
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Dr. Gaurij Hood
General Physician
16 yrs exp
Valsad
Apparently looks allergic or viral.Pls connect for further discussion and solution.
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Dr. Nazia Begum M.G
General Physician
15 yrs exp
Belgaum
Consult online
Will guide you and prescribe medication for the same
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Dr. Saurabh Tiwari
Neuropsychiatrist
6 yrs exp
Lucknow
Kindly consult
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Dr. Bijli Nanda
General Practitioner
7 yrs exp
Noida
Check cbc
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Dr. Savita Thakur
General Physician
9 yrs exp
Delhi
You need not to worry.It’s probably viral and for cough keep drinking lukewarm water at regular intervals, steam inhalation, saline water gargle .
For more help and to clear your doubts s, please contact
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Dr. Shivam Mishra
General Physician
5 yrs exp
Mumbai
The symptoms you describe—initial runny nose, sneezing, and a dry cough—are more commonly associated with a viral infection, particularly if there is no high fever, persistent worsening, or signs of bacterial complications like yellowish-green phlegm, chest pain, or difficulty breathing.
However, the recurring cough triggered by cold weather could indicate underlying allergic bronchitis or post-viral cough sensitivity. Montelukast-Levocetirizine (Montek LC) can help in case of an allergic or post-viral origin, as suggested by Dr. Sushma.
To differentiate bacterial from viral infections:
1. Viral infections often improve within 7-10 days with supportive care.
2. Bacterial infections might cause persistent or worsening symptoms, such as high fever or pus-like nasal discharge.
For now, stay hydrated, avoid irritants, and maintain a warm environment. If symptoms persist or worsen, further evaluation is required to rule out secondary bacterial infection or other conditions like asthma or GERD.
For a more personalized evaluation and treatment plan, feel free to consult me directly. You can also reach me on WhatsApp at eight zero zero nine eight two one three three two.
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Dr. Gaurav Jaiswal
General Physician
6 yrs exp
Jhansi
Avoid fried food and spicy food
Water intake more
Green leafy vegetables and fruits
Fiber meal
Do connect and consult
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Dr. Anubha Singh
General Physician
4 yrs exp
Jhansi
If you require assistance or have any health concerns, feel free to reach out for a consultation. Your well-being is my priority, and i'm here to support you on your health journey.
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Dr. Chaithra H
General Physician
5 yrs exp
Bangalore
More like viral infection with superadded bacterial infection.
Take antibiotics.
Do consult.
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Dr. Anuj Mothsra
General Physician
6 yrs exp
Jhunjhunu
Can help you, kindly consult and provide detailed history for proper diagnosis and further management
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Dr. Sachin Pariskar
Pediatrician
8 yrs exp
Pune
Take steam inhalation
Next Steps
kindly consult once for discussion
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Dr. Ravi Kumar Nadella
General Physician
18 yrs exp
Hyderabad
No fever, no antibiotics
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Disclaimer : The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.