[21F] Experiencing cough and fluctuating body temperature

Patient Description

A 21-year-old female presents with symptoms of coughing up mucus and experiencing fluctuations between feeling hot and cold, which started around the previous day. The patient describes the cough as moderate in severity and productive, with mucus resembling large boogers. She also reports feeling unusually cold at work, followed by sensations of warmth, but has not confirmed fever with a thermometer. The patient has been experiencing these temperature fluctuations since yesterday and they seem to be persistent. She has not engaged in any activities that could explain the chills other than her usual work. No other symptoms or relevant medical history were provided.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the symptoms you've described, here are a few possible conditions:

  • Common Cold: This viral infection of your nose and throat can cause a runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, a mild headache, and a cough with mucus. It usually resolves on its own within a week to 10 days.

    • Treatment typically involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter cold remedies.

  • Influenza (Flu): This is more severe than a common cold and can cause fever, chills, muscle aches, cough, congestion, runny nose, headaches, and fatigue.

    • Treatment may include rest, hydration, over-the-counter remedies, and antiviral drugs if prescribed by a doctor.

  • COVID-19: This is a novel coronavirus that can cause symptoms similar to the flu, including fever, cough, and chills. It can be severe or deadly for some, especially those with underlying health conditions.

    • Treatment involves supportive care to help relieve symptoms and, in severe cases, hospital care.

  • Pneumonia: This is an infection that inflames the air sacs in one or both lungs, which may fill with fluid. Symptoms can include a cough with phlegm or pus, fever, chills, and difficulty breathing.

    • Treatment typically involves antibiotics, fever reducers, and cough medicine.

What you can do

  1. Monitor your symptoms closely. If they worsen or you develop new symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
  2. Rest and stay hydrated. This can help your body fight off the infection and recover more quickly.
  3. Over-the-counter cold and flu remedies can help alleviate your symptoms. However, always follow the package instructions.
  4. If you suspect you might have COVID-19, get tested as soon as possible and isolate yourself from others.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

  • Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
  • Persistent pain or pressure in your chest
  • New confusion or inability to arouse
  • Bluish lips or face

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

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8 mo ago

People Also Ask

What are the common symptoms of a cold and how long do they typically last?

Common symptoms of a cold include a runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, mild headache, and a cough with mucus. These symptoms usually resolve on their own within a week to 10 days.

How can I differentiate between the flu and a common cold based on symptoms?

The flu is generally more severe than a common cold and can include symptoms like fever, chills, muscle aches, and fatigue, in addition to a cough and congestion. The common cold usually has milder symptoms and does not typically cause fever or severe body aches.

What steps should I take if I suspect I have COVID-19?

If you suspect you have COVID-19, you should get tested as soon as possible and isolate yourself from others to prevent spreading the virus. Follow local health guidelines and consult with a healthcare provider for further advice.

When should I seek medical attention for symptoms like cough and temperature fluctuations?

You should seek medical attention if you experience difficulty breathing, persistent chest pain or pressure, new confusion, inability to arouse, or bluish lips or face. These could be signs of a more serious condition requiring immediate care.

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