Hi doctor, I have been dealing with sinus issues pretty much all fall and winter. Three weeks ago I finally decided to head to the doctor and was prescribed a Z-pak for my sinus infection (main symptoms were congestion, ear pressure, and lethargy, tiredness). After the Z-pak I was feeling much, much better. Essentially back to normal physically. Now, around two weeks post-antibiotic treatment, I am dealing with some small lingering symptoms, increased mucus in the morning, ear pressure in the mornings and evenings, and a nose blow or two of light yellow snot (this was thicker before antibiotics). My question is whether it is worth going back to the doctor to get another round of antibiotics to finish it off or is this something my body will slowly get rid of in some time? I certainly do not want to take another unnecessary course of antibiotics. However, I do want to get rid of the symptoms. I am currently using Flonase in the morning.
Hello. You do not need to go back to the doctor for antibiotics. If you were to come to me at this point, I will examine you and make sure the disease process has reduced. And if everything goes well, I will prescribe you some mucus lightening agents with anti-allergic and continue the spray. Mucus lightening agents are Ambroxol or N-acetylcysteine. Ambroxol 30 mg can be taken twice daily for 3 to 4 days or you may take 75 mg (Ambroxol sustained release) once daily for 3 to 4 days and thereafter continue either of these regimens till you have phlegm. Anti-allergic is Deslor (Desloratadine 5 mg) taken once daily or Levocetirizine 5 or Cetirizine 10. Add Singulair 10 mg once daily with these. These two you may have to take till winters resolve. Continue Flonase spray as prescribed. Can try some nasal douching once or twice daily to help alleviate the symptoms. Saline douching can be done. Nasowash is a premixed sachet with saline powder which you gotta mix in water and douche the nose.