Since Sunday morning, I had poha for breakfast and later drank cold water. Soon after, I developed recurrent sneezing and a runny, watery nose, which has persisted. I also feel sensitive to air and have discomfort even with a fan. By the afternoon, I developed a cough along with pain while sneezing and coughing. I am unsure what this could be, and I cannot afford a doctor visit at the moment. I have some medicines at home, including Altiva 120 mg, amoxicillin 250 mg, paracetamol, and nimesulide. Can I take these medicines for my symptoms?
Asked by Female, 22 · 12 days ago
Your symptoms of repeated sneezing, a runny, watery nose, airway sensitivity, and later cough with discomfort most commonly suggest a viral cold or allergic rhinitis. This often happens when the nasal lining becomes irritated by infection, dust, weather changes, or cold air. Drinking cold water or exposure to cool air does not cause infection but may trigger or worsen symptoms in sensitive people. Among the medicines you have, Altiva 120 mg (fexofenadine) may help reduce sneezing and a runny nose if allergy is the cause. Paracetamol can be used for headaches, body aches, or throat discomfort. Amoxicillin is an antibiotic and should not be taken for these symptoms unless a doctor confirms a bacterial infection, as most such illnesses are viral and do not improve with antibiotics. Nimesulide is not recommended for simple cold or flu-like symptoms and should be avoided unless prescribed. You may also try steam inhalation, warm fluids, and rest. Avoid direct fan or cold air on your face. If your symptoms last more than a week or if you develop a high fever, breathing difficulty, or chest pain, please see a doctor promptly.
