Q:

So as with everyone else on campus, I caught the cold going around. Unfortunately for me, a good number of my colds end up settling in my chest for weeks on end and causing a sinus infection (ever since I had walking pneumonia this happens) with a lot of wheezing every time I breathe deeply out. I usually take antibiotics when this happens (and it happens about every change of the season... so roughly 2-4 times a year). Is there anything else I can do to get rid of this or are antibiotics my only option? And if they are, where can I buy some on campus (from a Health Provider) to alleviate my terrible symptoms?

 

A:

Antibiotics are not a given for infections like this. It sounds as if you are particularly vulnerable to viral respiratory infections becoming secondary bacterial infections, but many sinus infections can be managed with saline rinses, sprays and heat to the sinus areas. It can take longer to resolve sometimes but doesn't continually expose your healthy flora to antibiotics.

There are a few cold type medications at the bookstore and the Health Center gives out over the counter medications free if you see a nurse for assessment. We do have antibiotics, nasal sprays and other prescription medications for sale in the Health Center or you can go to a local pharmacy.

~The Doc