[20F] Experiencing ear clogging, respiratory symptoms, and dizziness

Patient Description

A 20-year-old female presents with a few weeks' history of sudden-onset clogged ears, associated with headaches and dizziness, particularly exacerbated by driving. She reports moderate productive coughing and wheezing for 3 weeks, and facial headaches with pain and pressure for 2 weeks. The patient has noticed a decrease in hearing and transient vision changes. She has a history of asthma and ADHD, diagnosed 2 years and 1 year ago, respectively. She is currently on Adderall for ADHD and birth control. No known drug allergies. No severe sudden hearing loss, intense vertigo, or severe headaches with neck stiffness were reported.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on your symptoms, here are a few possibilities:

  • Sinusitis: This is an inflammation or swelling of the tissue lining the sinuses. It can cause symptoms like a runny or stuffy nose, facial pain or pressure, cough, and dizziness. It's often caused by a viral infection and can last for several weeks.

    • Treatment usually involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter remedies to relieve symptoms. If symptoms persist for more than 10 days, a healthcare provider may prescribe antibiotics.
  • Middle Ear Infection (Otitis Media): This condition can cause symptoms such as ear pain, hearing loss, and dizziness. It's often caused by a viral or bacterial infection.

    • Treatment usually involves pain management and sometimes antibiotics if the cause is bacterial.
  • Allergic Rhinitis: This is an allergic response to allergens like dust, pollen, or pet dander. It can cause symptoms like a runny or stuffy nose, coughing, and sometimes dizziness.

    • Treatment usually involves avoiding the allergen and taking antihistamines to control symptoms.

Please note that these are just possibilities and not a definitive diagnosis. It's important to consult a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

What you can do

Here are some general suggestions that may help alleviate your symptoms:

  1. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids to thin out the mucus in your sinuses and ears, which can help relieve pressure and congestion.
  2. Use a Humidifier: This can help moisten your nasal and throat passages and may help alleviate congestion.
  3. Over-the-Counter Remedies: Decongestants, antihistamines, or nasal sprays may help relieve some of your symptoms. Always follow the package instructions.
  4. Rest: Give your body a chance to recover by getting plenty of sleep and taking it easy when you can.

What you should look out for

Please seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

  • Severe pain or swelling in the face or forehead
  • High fever (over 102°F)
  • Symptoms that persist for more than 10 days without improvement
  • Difficulty breathing or severe wheezing
  • Sudden, severe worsening of symptoms

Remember, I'm an AI and this advice is based on the information you provided. It's always important to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

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10 mo ago

People Also Ask


What are the common symptoms of sinusitis?

Common symptoms of sinusitis include a runny or stuffy nose, facial pain or pressure, headaches, cough, and dizziness. It can also cause a decrease in the sense of smell and sometimes fever.


How can middle ear infections affect hearing?

Middle ear infections can lead to temporary hearing loss due to fluid buildup behind the eardrum, which can dampen sound vibrations. This condition can also cause ear pain and a feeling of fullness in the ear.


What are some effective treatments for allergic rhinitis?

Effective treatments for allergic rhinitis include avoiding known allergens, using antihistamines to reduce symptoms, nasal corticosteroids to decrease inflammation, and decongestants to relieve nasal congestion.


When should I seek medical attention for sinus-related symptoms?

You should seek medical attention if you experience severe pain or swelling in the face or forehead, a high fever over 102°F, symptoms that persist for more than 10 days without improvement, difficulty breathing, or severe wheezing.


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