Congestion That the Doctors Can Hear and I Can't

you took your son to the doctor and the ER for a mild cold and a low grade fever. that sounds a little over the top to me for the symptoms you're describing. but it's your perrogative, and you did it, and you have your answer. both told you he has some congestion but no ear infection.

over the counter decongestants will not cure or prevent anything. unless this child is miserable and inconsolable, to me it sounds like just a regular everyday cold that he needs to just work through on his own. the more medicine you give him the less he will react to it down the line. i am sorry to say but it sounds to me like you are overreacting a bit.

**to LolaN, i disagree that i "should" go back and read previous posts. i answered her question based on the information given. it isn't my responsibility to read everyone's back story before i offer the advice that is asked for. i don't think i was rude or out of line at all. i honestly don't believe you can "prevent" an ear infection. my opinion was asked ("what do you think?") and i gave it.

If two out of two doctors do not think a decongestant is needed than I would say no decongestant. Just follow doctors' orders and I'm sure he'll be feeling better soon.

A stethoscope is used to hear congestion in the lungs and that's different from congestion in the sinuses/head.
Perhaps next time you can ask the Dr if you can borrow his stethoscope so you can hear what they are hearing. Or you can get your own stethoscope.

A decongestant will thicken mucous and will make things worse in the ears (and lungs).

To keep the mucus thin they usually suggest an expectorant (like Robitussin (anything with guaifenesin in it)).
A humidifier, steamy shower/bath, rinsing the nose out with a neti pot and saline, and drinking plenty of fluids can help too.

First of all, you may wish to reconsider taking your son to the ER for a simple cold. It is not a life-threatening or dangerous injury and every other patient who comes in before your kid that has a problem that could result in death, trauma, or severe issues that could lead to death if not treated will be seen first and your kid keeps getting pushed back, so that could be part of why it was a nightmare experience for you. Colds are not 'emergency medicine'. If you simply must see someone immediately, a Walgreens or CVS take care clinic or an urgent care is a better choice in the event you cannot see your doctor.

Not sure how old your child is but ear infections are part of the process. The eustachian tubes/ear canal is not as long as an adult's and the angle of the canal both contribute to a higher incidence of infection. Some kids just seem to get more than others and it doesn't matter if they are kids to a SAHM or go to daycare, were formula fed or breastfed. Unfortunately this is something you and your child may just have to manage during his youth. Yes, it sucks but sometimes there isn't much you can do.

A while back the APA recommended that children not be given most over the counter cold medications because they simply do not work and may do more harm than good.

You've now had two separate medical professionals who have had extensive training in pediatric medicine tell you that a decongestant is not necessary. Since they probably do not know each other, thus are not 'in cahoots' with each other, it is probably in your child's best interest to listen to their advice.

Do the best you can to keep your kid comfortable. No one likes it when their kid gets sick but unfortunately it is part of life and we have to find a way to best manage it. Good luck!

the issue lies ......in the difference between a decongestant & an antihistamine! No, he does not need a decong....but I think some antihistamine would do him wonders!

Something is causing him to feel pressure in his ears....without moving into a full blown ear infection.

& something is causing him to build up fluid in his lungs. & just because you can't hear it, doesn't mean it's not there!

Going to the ER was a waste of time, simply because they do not know your son's case history. Seeing the dr last Thursday does not apply to today. It applies only for that day! Call your regular dr & explain that the ER heard congestion & since it's been almost a week, what can be done?

just to clarify to adansmommy you are not overreacting. she should go back and read your posts to know where you are coming from. your son has a history of ear infections and hearing loss.
back to your question, how old is your son? I do give my 6 year olds decongestant for the same reason you are debating, to prevent it from going into her ears. so depending on your child's age I would give him something. Put plenty of pillows under his head too. throughout the day have him blow his nose. good luck to you.