[glenntaj]

Hi crew--first time posting on the meds forum, though I've read here intermittently and am certainly all over many of the other forums . . .but figured I'd post here to get Mrs. D's and others' comments.

Recently, after a bad cold, I experienced persistent nasal/sinus congestion/fullness/pressure and thick mucous (mostly whitish with occasional yellow/green tinge) that also seemed to be producing a vibrational sensation in my nasal sinus areas (or after exertion, or during exposure to steady loud noise, such as headphone delivered music). Consultation with my otal revealed inflamed membranes and culture indicated a staph infection of the area. I was given a nasal nebulizer with suspension prescriptions of Tobramycin (100mg), Itraconazole (40mg), and Budesonide (0.5mg) to blow into my passages/sinuses twice daily and oral Clinamycin 300mg twice/day to take for 10 days.
(Doctor originally wanted to give me Levaquin or Cipro, but given my peripheral neuropathy history I reminded him I shuold likely steer clear of those, and I am allergic to penicillin, ampicillin, and the sulfas.)

So, about 3 days into the Clindamycin, I developed diarrhea/loose watery stools--a not uncommon effect of that med, as I know. Now, however, it is six days post finishing the ten day dosing and the effect is still persisting. It may have lessened slightly in that the stools are more well formed, but still considerably looser than normal, and I have the sensation I can't "hold" food very long (that it "goes right through me").

I've been eating a lot of active culture yogurt, but am wondering if people can advise me how long this might go on--I don't think it is severe Clostridium difficile associated diarrhea (maybe mild--I go maybe three times a day now, as opposed to my usual one), but I'd love to hear of more ways to rebalance the flora in my gut.

BTW, the nasal sinus infection seems to be about 25% better, but certainly not gone yet. I understand these things can take significant time to improve; I continue on the nebulized medication.

[mrsD]

I answered you on your other thread.

Taking Mucinex DM may help. I use a generic form of this in half strength every night (Mucus relief DM from Walmart) as 1/2 tablet to help prevent sinus congestion. It prevents sinus attacks I believe.
You can also get the liquid which is Robitussin DM. Don't get the wrong one, because there is another with only DM and not guaifenesin together. I find the Mucus relief DM more economical and easier to travel on vacation with.

This is what the box looks like:
http://www.walgreens.com/store/c/wal...s_&_Treatments

Walmart has 60 for about $8 compared to Walgreens.
The tablets can be split unlike the brand name Mucinex which is more expensive by far!

You'll find the DM helps your PN too!