When should I revisit my doctor?
I’m a 21-year-old male weighing 152 pounds. It all began on June 9, when I started experiencing a sore throat. I consulted a doctor on June 13, where tests for COVID-19, strep throat, and the flu all came back negative. A day or two later, I developed a fever, and my throat discomfort escalated over the following days. The week after, I noticed a cough and nasal congestion, while the sore throat seemed to subside. On June 23, I returned for another examination but was prescribed only cough suppressants and a five-day course of antibiotics. I completed that course today. Although my nasal congestion has disappeared, I've been dealing with a persistent cough for nearly two weeks. This cough intensifies if I sit or bend in a certain way. In summary, I had throat pain for two weeks, which led to a cough during the second week. I’ve now been coughing for about two weeks. My initial tests came back negative for any illness, and I was given antibiotics just this past Monday.
Answers (1)
6/27/2025, 5:40:36 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you've been experiencing prolonged symptoms following an initial throat issue, and it's understandable to be concerned about your persistent cough. Here’s a breakdown of your situation and what to consider next.
Main Points
- You have a persistent cough that has lasted nearly two weeks, following a history of throat pain and a recent respiratory illness.
- Your symptoms improved slightly, but the cough remains concerning, especially since it worsens with certain positions.
Explanation
After a throat infection, it’s common for coughing to linger due to postnasal drip (mucus running down the back of the throat), irritation, or even a mild secondary infection that can occur. You’ve already seen a doctor twice, and it's good to note that antibiotics are not effective against viral infections, which is likely what you had initially.
However, since your cough has persisted for two weeks following treatment and is aggravated by certain movements, it’s important to ensure there aren’t any other underlying issues, such as asthma, bronchitis, or reflux.
Next Steps
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Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in your cough, such as its frequency, intensity, and any associated symptoms (like wheezing, shortness of breath, or chest pain).
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Try Home Remedies:
- Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids to help soothe your throat and thin mucus.
- Humidifier: Use a humidifier in your room to keep the air moist and relieve cough irritation.
- Lozenges: Soothe your throat with lozenges or warm saltwater gargles if you experience throat discomfort again.
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Revisit Your Doctor:
- If your cough persists beyond another week, worsens, or if you experience any new symptoms like fever, difficulty breathing, or coughing up blood, you should revisit your doctor for further evaluation. It's essential to discuss the intensity of your cough and its positional nature, as this can help guide further diagnostics.
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Consider Seeking Advice SOON: If you're feeling particularly anxious about your symptoms or if something feels off, don’t hesitate to contact your healthcare provider sooner rather than later.
Patience is key with coughs post-viral infections, but staying attentive to your body’s signals will guide your next steps effectively. Let me know if you have any more questions or need further details!
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