Sniff, Sniff, Cough…It’s That Time of Year

We’ve all been there: tightness in the chest, nasal congestion, that lingering cough, and unmistakable forehead pressure, leaving us feeling drained and miserable. But annoying head colds can often fester into viral or bacterial sinusitis that may last for 10 or more debilitating days, and it is common to look for a quick fix to feel better. Although antibiotics are ineffective for viral infections, doctors might prescribe Levaquin, Avelox, Cipro, and other medications to treat bacterial sinus and other infections. However, patients should use caution when doctors prescribe these strong drugs for more common diseases. In the opinion of prominent audiologist Dr. Jennifer J. Adams of Advanced Otolaryngology Associates in East Brunswick, NJ, as well as numerous other medical professionals, these drugs can yield serious side effects such as weakening tendons and impacts on the central nervous system, and should be reserved to treat longer, more serious infections.