Should my pulmonologist be called if I get a bad cold?

Posted by bevf @bevf, 4 days ago

I’m an 85 year old female with mild symptoms and have never been on big 3 but have a tendency to get pneumonia. Last week I got norovirus and now have a chest cold. Lucky me!
My question is when to call the Dr. ? When I have a fever…tight chest? Before being diagnosed in 2023 with B and MAC, I wouldn’t call until I was really sure I must have pneumonia. Thanks so much for any guidance.

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lvnl | @lvnl | 4 days ago

Yes, call them. I just had my first cold since being dx w MAC last July. I'm on Arikayce (or placebo && I'm in a study) ethambutol and Azithromycin.
I happened to be in for a regular check the day I woke up w a scratchy throat. They swabbed -- positive for one of the cold-causing corona viruses (not COVID 19). Symptoms were relatively mild, 2 sputum samples were negative for typical secondary bacterial infections, so we waited it out. They told me to keep them closely informed thru MyChart which I did.
I am only getting back to my previous baseline now, 5 weeks later. I never had a cold linger like this before. So yes, your pulmonologists SHOULD want to monitor any virus closely so they can help you head off an exacerbation. All best wishes for a speedy & easy recovery!

tevadog | @tevadog | 3 days ago

Call for the doctor or nurse.
Dont wait.

bevf | @bevf | 3 days ago

In reply to @tevadog "Call for the doctor or nurse. Dont wait." + (show)

Thanks you so much! Will do!

rwbridger | @rwbridger | 3 days ago

My pulmonologist writes a script for antibiotics that I fill and keep at home. If I travel I take the meds with me. When I begin to feel a heavy/tight chest, and I have a temp with a cough, I start the antibiotic right away. I had to use them twice this past winter, but it kept me from getting pneumonia. I see my pulmonologist every 6 months. He is very good!

bevf | @bevf | 1 day ago

Right now I’m worn out from coughing. No temp though just lots of yellow sputum. My Pulmonologist told me to make sure I don’t have Covid
(I don’t) and to watch for dark green or brown mucus. I guess I just have to wait it out. I’ve had both the RSV and pneumonia shots which should help. We’re starting to get some warmer weather here in the northeast which helps to lift my spirits.
My husband has had a stroke and I just pray he doesn’t get this nasty bug!