Does runny nose, watery eyes and cough indicate swine flu?
Patient: my best friend came over a few days ago and called me yesterday and said he had an upper respiratory virus.  every since he left my house, my nose is stuffy, i have a SEVERE cough that will not stop, and watery eyes. i do not get sick often, maybe once a year. i am scared. do u think i have the swine flu? Doctor: Hi.Welcome to HEALTHCARE MAGIC.I have gone through your query and can understand your concerns..As per your complain in case if your friend had upper respiratory tract infection and he visited you during the active course of infection there is a possibility that you have got exposed to the virus particles leading to upper respiratory tract infection and the stuffy nose or congestion and cough can be due to it..Although these symptoms can be seen in case of swine flu also but chances are more towards upper respiratory tract infection and not swine flu..I would suggest you to consult an Otolaryngologist and get evaluated and a clinical evaluation and blood investigation can be diagnostic..As of now you can take decongestants like Phenylephrine orally and nasal decongestant sprays containing Xylometazoline..You can also do warm saline gargles and steam inhalations..Avoid chilled foods..Take Tylenol for generalized body aches..Hope this information helps..Thanks and regards.Dr.Honey Nandwani Arora.