When Is It Time For An Antibiotic For Congestion And Cough?

This time of year we see many patients with cold and upper respiratory symptoms. It can be hard, as a patient, to know when to call us for an appointment or if an antibiotic is needed. It is best to avoid antibiotics with a viral infection, especially if symptoms can be managed with decongestants or other over the counter medications. Antibiotics are generally used as a last resort if symptoms worsen and persist for more than 7 days.

With upper respiratory viruses, the first few days of illness are too early to determine if an antibiotic should be used and are best treated by managing symptoms such as cough, congestion, and sore throat. A standard over the counter treatment of cough and congestion with sore throat would be Mucinex (green or blue box), Delsym Cough Syrup, and Advil or Ibuprofen for pain management. However, if you begin to worsen, run fever, or suspect that you may have the flu, it is time to come in and let us perform an examination to best choose a course of treatment.

We encourage you to receive your annual flu vaccine at a location that is most convenient for you. If they are offering flu shots at work or at the local pharmacy, please do not hesitate to take advantage of the opportunity. In the clinic we will offer the Quadrivalent Seasonal Flu Vaccine. If you are 65 years and older and wish to receive the High-Dose Seasonal Flu Vaccine, you may receive that vaccine at your local pharmacy and we would be happy to help you with any questions you may have.