Question 1

I'm curious about something that's been on my mind. I've had a pattern of catching a cold and fever twice every year, usually when the seasons change, like when winter starts and ends. My doctor always prescribed Azithromycin for it. The funny thing is, during the first year of the pandemic, I didn't get sick at all, but this year, I got the usual cold again.

Now I'm wondering if it might be COVID instead of a regular cold since Azithromycin is still used for COVID treatments. Why are doctors now hesitant to prescribe Azithromycin without a COVID test done first? Is there a risk that I could build resistance to it, and it may not work if I really get COVID later, even though I've always completed my courses? I'm just trying to figure out if taking Azithromycin twice a year when I have a cold and fever is okay. Back in the day, my doctor didn't think twice about prescribing it. Why has the protocol changed?

Accepted Answer

#NAME?

Question 2

I'm feeling really confused and worried right now. I had a fever and took a paracetamol tablet at night, then ended up sweating a lot. I thought it might be some reaction to the tablet, but the next morning I woke up feeling really cold. I decided to go to the hospital, and the consultant told me its because of viral fever. Ive always thought that the main symptom of a viral infection would be a runny nose. Am I wrong about that? I got a blood test done, and the results were all normal, but the doctor still wants me to come back in two days to check my platelets. What do you think is going on?

Accepted Answer

Dengue fever concerns:
 
 *Immediate Action:*
 
 1. Hospitalize your sister if possible, especially with severe symptoms.
 2. Consult the doctor who diagnosed her for guidance.
 
 *Temperature Management:*
 
 1. Continue Paracetamol (PCM) and Pan (anti-pyretic) as prescribed.
 2. Monitor temperature closely.
 3. Consider IV fluids and medication in a hospital setting.
 
 *Platelet Count (2lacs):*
 
 1. Closely monitor platelet count.
 2. Transfusion may be necessary if count drops below 1 lac.
 
 *Dietary Advice:*
 
 1. Fluid-rich foods:
 - Soups
 - Broth
 - Coconut water
 - Fresh fruit juices
 2. Easy-to-digest foods:
 - Porridge
 - Idlis (steamed rice cakes)
 - Toast
 - Plain rice
 3. Avoid:
 - Spicy foods
 - Heavy meals
 - Fried foods
 
 *Body Pain and Burning Sensation:*
 
 1. Follow doctor's advice on pain management.
 2. Use cool compresses or wet towels to reduce fever.
 
 *Solo (Paracetamol) Dosage:*
 
 1. Consult the doctor before administering another dose.
 2. Typically, 1 tablet every 4-6 hours, not exceeding 3 tablets in 24 hours.
 
 *Worry Signs:*
 
 1. Severe abdominal pain
 2. Vomiting
 3. Bleeding gumsnose
 4. Difficulty breathing
 5. Platelet count below 1 lac

Question 3

I'm a bit concerned about something that happened yesterday. I had a cold and decided to put some tiger balm on my nose to help with congestion because I've heard it's pretty strong. But later, I noticed a tiny bit might have gotten on my lips when I was drinking coffee. Since then, my throat's been kind of burning, and whenever I burp, that burning sensation is there too. Is this something I should be worried about? What would be the best way to treat it?

Accepted Answer

It sounds like the Tiger Balm might have irritated your throat or caused mild acid reflux. It's not usually dangerous, but to ease the discomfort, you can try drinking warm water or herbal tea, avoid spicy foods, and take an antacid if needed. If the burning persists, consult a doctor to rule out any underlying issues.

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