A 35-year-old woman visited our clinic after experiencing persistent coughing, even though she had recovered from a flu-like illness a month ago. She had self medicated, following her pharmacist’s suggestion to take antibiotics and use inhalers and nebulizers. While her fever had subsided, her cough remained, which she believed was linked to a chest problem caused by the flu. However, the true issue was a long-term complication due to improper self-treatment — a common scenario for many people after flu.
Despite visiting a pulmonologist, who recommended a chest X-ray that showed no issues, a CT scan revealed the real problem: bronchitis. This condition, which inflames the airways, was triggered by post-nasal drip from blocked sinuses — a frequent complication following a viral flu. The excess mucus from her sinuses dripped into her throat, leading to discomfort and a persistent cough. The flu had resolved, but the sinus inflammation remained untreated, causing ongoing symptoms.
After prescribing a nasal saline rinse and steroid nasal spray, along with hydration, her condition began to improve. This could have been avoided if she had consulted a doctor instead of relying on over-the-counter medications.
The key lesson is that antibiotics, which she had taken unnecessarily, can weaken the body’s natural defenses against viral infections. Self-medicating can lead to complications, delayed recovery, and unnecessary risks. Trust your healthcare provider for proper guidance.
Read also: