[18M] Experiencing ear congestion and respiratory symptoms

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, the following conditions might be causing your symptoms:

• Allergic Rhinitis: This is an allergic response to allergens like dust, pollen, or pet dander. Symptoms can include a runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, red, itchy, and watery eyes, and swelling around the eyes. The congestion in your ears could be due to the inflammation in your nasal passages.

  • Treatment typically involves avoiding the allergen and taking over-the-counter or prescription medications to control symptoms.

• Sinusitis: This is an inflammation or swelling of the tissue lining the sinuses. It can cause a blocked nose, reduced sense of smell, facial pain, and a high temperature. The inflammation can also affect your ears.

  • Treatment can involve a combination of self-care, such as rest and drinking plenty of fluids, and prescribed medicines.

• Common Cold or Flu: These viral infections can cause a range of symptoms including a blocked or runny nose, sneezing, a sore throat, slight hearing loss, and a cough.

  • Treatment involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter remedies to relieve symptoms.

• Asthma: This is a condition in which your airways narrow and swell and may produce extra mucus. This can make breathing difficult and trigger coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.

  • Treatment involves the use of prescribed medications to prevent and control symptoms and to reduce airway inflammation.

Please note that these are potential explanations based on the symptoms you've provided, but only a healthcare professional can provide a definitive diagnosis.

What you can do

While you should definitely seek medical attention for a formal diagnosis, here are some things you can do in the meantime:

1. Try to identify any potential allergens in your environment and avoid them if possible.
2. Use a humidifier to moisten your nasal and throat passages, which can help with congestion.
3. Drink plenty of fluids and get plenty of rest.
4. Over-the-counter decongestants may help with ear congestion, but they should not be used for more than a few days at a time.
5. Avoid strenuous physical activity if it's causing shortness of breath.

What you should look out for

You should seek immediate medical attention if:

• Your symptoms worsen or do not improve after a few days of home treatment.
• You have severe difficulty breathing or shortness of breath even at rest.
• You have a high fever that doesn't go away with over-the-counter medication.
• You have severe pain in your ears or discharge from your ears.

Remember, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may not apply to your personal situation. Always consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate examinations, treatment, testing, and care recommendations.