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(HealthNewsDigest.com) – The cold-and-cold season is upon us, but before reaching for the over-the-counter medication to treat that cough, make sure you know what exactly you’re dealing with. Dr. Jordan Pritikin, a board-certified otolaryngologist at The Chicago Nasal & Sinus Center, explains that many similarities exist between sinus colds, sinus infections and pneumonia, but treatment plans are very different.
“One way to detect whether you’re dealing with a basic cold or something more is to determine where the cough begins; if it starts as post-nasal drip it’s most likely a cold or sinus infection, but if the cough is from the lungs you could be dealing with bronchitis or pneumonia,” says Dr. Pritikin.
In addition to cough origination, symptom severity will vary depending on the type of illness as well. Common colds are synonymous with sore throats, runny noses, congestion, and a persistent cough. Pneumonia sufferers will likely report fever, extreme exhaustion, weakness, frequent sweating, wheezing and/or shortness of breath.
“Understanding where and how your cough started will be very helpful in both the treatment and diagnosis processes,” continues Dr. Pritikin. “Since all of these illnesses are highly contagious within households and the workplace, it’s crucial to get checked out by physicians and treated as quickly as possible.”
According to Dr. Pritikin treatment will vary depending on the type of cough and sickness as well. “Post-nasal sinus drip and related symptoms can traditionally be treated with over-the-counter medications including decongestants or antihistamines. For sinus infections, bronchitis and pneumonia, antibiotics are often required.”
Dr. Pritikin was recently on the faculty and a featured speaker at The Open Forum 2013 inColorado Springs, a national meeting of otolaryngologists focusing on cutting edge treatments for chronic sinusitis and a number of other sinus related conditions. For more information on this topic or to schedule an interview with Dr. Jordan Pritikin, please contact me directly.
Thanks,
Claudia
About Dr. Jordan Pritikin
Dr. Jordan Pritikin is a board-certified otolaryngologist at Chicago Nasal & Sinus Center, a private medical practice devoted to the diagnosis and treatment of nasal and sinus disorders. Dr. Pritikin is a Fellow of the American Academy of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery and attended Rush Medical College in Chicago, where he was selected to the Alpha Omega Alpha Honors Medical Society. Over the years, Dr. Pritikin has cultivated an interest in Rhinology, focusing his practice on diseases of the nose and sinuses, and has participated in clinical research exploring innovative therapies for chronic sinusitis. He has lectured at local and national meetings, developed informational and training videos demonstrating surgical techniques for the nose and sinuses, and has helped develop and refine instruments designed for sinus surgery. Dr. Pritikin and the Chicago Nasal & Sinus Center offer patients an unparalleled level of service, utilizing state-of-the art technology and innovative treatments while maintaining a thoughtful and caring approach. For more information visit http://www.
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