Hi, I moved to Hong Kong (where air pollution is pretty bad) 8 years ago and I ve been getting Upper Respiratory Infections almost 7 - 8 times a year. It always starts with an itchy & irritated sensation in the middle of the chest (airway?) and then in a day or 2, it ll be a very sore throat, followed by coughing, congested & runny nose and then it goes back to the airway. I ve been put on Singulair but this is reoccuring almost once a month, and usually just before my period (immune system the weakest?). What can I do to better equip myself & boost my immune system? I m so sick of being sick... Thanks!
Thanks for your question on Chat Doctor. I can understand your concern. By your history and description, possibility of allergic rhinitis is more. You are allergic to something from the environment of Hong Kong. And this gives recurrent symptoms. So in my opinion, you should consult good allergist and first diagnose yourself. You will mostly improve with intranasal spray containing steroids (fluticasone) and oral combination of antihistamine (levocetrizine or fexofenadine) and anti-allergic (montelukast). Steam inhalation 4-5 times a day is also beneficial.  Chat Doctor.