[63M] With persistent cough and gastrointestinal symptoms post-cold
Patient Description
A 63-year-old male has been experiencing a moderate, dry cough for two weeks, which worsens when talking. The cough began following a recent cold and has not improved. The patient also reports fatigue, loss of appetite, and a weight loss of 12 pounds over the same period. Additionally, he is experiencing frequent, watery diarrhea, occurring 3-4 times daily, without specific food triggers. Shortness of breath occurs when speaking, but there is no chest pain or wheezing. The patient has a history of acid reflux and exposure to secondhand smoke. A chest X-ray showed no abnormalities. He is currently taking Cephalexin 500mg daily. His medical history includes diverticulitis diagnosed six months ago and a prostate polyp diagnosed a year ago. There are no known drug allergies.
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Arora's Assessment
What might be happening
Based on your symptoms, here are some possible explanations:
-
Post-Viral Cough: After a cold, it's common to have a lingering cough due to airway irritation. This can last for weeks even after other symptoms have resolved.
- Treatment often involves supportive care, such as staying hydrated and using cough suppressants.
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Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Your history of reflux could contribute to a chronic cough, especially if acid is irritating your throat.
- Treatment includes dietary changes, antacids, or medications to reduce stomach acid.
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Side Effects of Antibiotics: Cephalexin can sometimes cause gastrointestinal symptoms like diarrhea.
- If symptoms persist, consult your doctor about adjusting your medication.
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Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): Stress or dietary changes can trigger symptoms like diarrhea.
- Management involves dietary adjustments and stress reduction techniques.
What you can do
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids to help with both your cough and diarrhea.
- Dietary Adjustments: Avoid foods that trigger reflux, such as spicy or fatty foods.
- Cough Relief: Use over-the-counter cough drops or suppressants to ease your cough.
- Monitor Symptoms: Use MDandMe to track your symptoms and any changes. This can help identify patterns or triggers.
- Consult Your Doctor: If symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical advice for further evaluation.
What you should look out for
- Seek Immediate Care If:
- You experience severe shortness of breath or chest pain.
- You notice blood in your stool or have severe abdominal pain.
- You develop a high fever or chills.
Remember, it's important to consult a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment plan.
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5 mo ago