Korean Job Discussion Forums

Fofazoju · Joined: 09 May 2006

SO, I have the flu. I went to the doctor yesterday and he said I have a "viral infection". Now, as FAR as I know, antibiotics don't WORK for viral infections. YET, somehow I am prescribed to take 20 pills a day. 7 each in the morning and night and 6 at lunch. Not to mention cough syrup 4 times a day.

Is it just me, or is this not only TOO much, but completely useless? I know Im not a doctor, but I thought that medications don't work for the flu virus.

I'm wondering if I should just stop taking the pills and let the flu ride out. Ive taken 3 doses of the pills and feel the exact same. I don't wanna be taking 20 pills a day if it isnt helping!

Any advice??

Ilsanman · Joined: 15 Aug 2003 Location: Bucheon, Korea

I think medication can alleviate some of the symptoms, but the virus has to run its course. 20 pills certainly seems excessive.

My guess is that he owns shares in some pharmaceutical companies.

Bibbitybop · Joined: 22 Feb 2006 Location: Seoul

Yes, go to a hospital with western standards, like Severance Hospital's International Clinic.

dr. love · Joined: 09 Oct 2007 Location: Seoul

I know that alot of doctors here prescribe medicine to avoid digestion problems, along with the pain killers and cold medicines they prescribe to treat the main problem. If you think he is giving you antibiotics, ask him to change the prescription.

Many people confuse a serious cold with the flu. The flu is quite serious and if not treated properly can lead to many more serious problems like pneumonia and bacterial infections.

If you have very acute symptoms, like a dry cough, a high fever, chills, sweating, body aches, it is most likely the flu. If the symptoms are milder, then it is most likely a cold.

I work at the East-West Neo Medical Center, Kyung Hee University in South Eastern Seoul. We are an 800 bed general hospital with full medical and oriental outpatient treatment centers.

If you are unhappy with your treatment, and would like to meet with an English speaking doctor, I'd be happy to give you referral.

nomad-ish · Posted: Mon Mar 31, 2008 5:27 pm Post subject:

i'd just ride it out, use tylenol for any aches and pains, and maybe something like nyquil at bedtime (you can buy it at red door in itaewon). i wouldn't pop 20 pills a day from a doctor for the flu. i

t is excessive, but considering everyone here goes to work when they're very sick, the doctors have to hand out pills like candy --it keeps the masses happy (thinking they'll get better soon)

Fofazoju · Joined: 09 May 2006

Yeah, Im not 100% I have the flu - that's why I went to doctor. He looked at my throat and saw spots and concluded I had a viral infection.

I don't have sweating, but I had high fever, and chills, body aches, severe headache, dry cough etc. All I know is Im sick Very Happy

I am kinda feeling better, but I decided I'm not gonna take those 20 daily pills.

That's just wrong.

mnhnhyouh · Joined: 21 Nov 2006 Location: The Middle Kingdom

A cold will become worse over maybe 6 - 12 hours.

A flu will flatten you within two.

h

Temporary · Joined: 13 Jan 2008

Korean doctors are morons.. I avoid them at all costs.. Or I just flat out tell them what I want they are more then happy too oblige.. It gets the waegook out of their hair.

bassexpander · Joined: 13 Sep 2007 Location: Someplace you'd rather be.

Easter Clark · Joined: 18 Nov 2007 Location: Hiding from Yie Eun-woong

OP--

Be sure to drink a LOT of fluids (preferably water). When I'm sick I try to take in a minimum of three liters a day. Also eat oranges or take a vitamin-C supplement. Avoid alcohol and smoking. Eat foods that are easy to digest. Of course get as much rest as possible!

I'm no doctor, obviously, but this works for me whenever I'm sick.

Get well soon!

idonojacs · Joined: 07 Jun 2007

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