[21F] Experiencing sensitive skin, headaches, and upper respiratory symptoms

What might be happening

Based on your symptoms, here are a few possibilities:

• Common Cold: This is a viral infection of your nose and throat. It's usually harmless, although it might not feel that way. Many types of viruses can cause a common cold. Symptoms might include a runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, cough, congestion, slight body aches or a mild headache.

  • Treatment for a common cold is simply rest and recovery. Over-the-counter cold remedies can help you feel better, but they won't make your cold go away any faster.

• Sinusitis: This is an inflammation or swelling of the tissue lining the sinuses. This can result in symptoms such as a stuffy nose, headache (particularly in the front of the head and face), and a sore throat.

  • Treatment for sinusitis often involves using a humidifier, drinking plenty of fluids, and taking over-the-counter pain relievers for any discomfort.

• Allergies: This is an overreaction by the body's immune system to substances that usually cause no reaction in most individuals. Symptoms can include a stuffy nose, headache, and skin sensitivity.

  • Treatment for allergies can involve avoiding known allergens, over-the-counter antihistamines, and nasal sprays.

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

What you can do

1. Rest and hydrate: Make sure you're getting plenty of sleep and drinking lots of fluids to help your body recover.
2. Over-the-counter remedies: Over-the-counter cold remedies can help with symptoms of a cold or allergies. Pain relievers can help with any discomfort or headaches.
3. Avoid allergens: If your symptoms are due to allergies, try to avoid known allergens.

What you should look out for

If your symptoms persist or get worse, or if you develop new symptoms such as a high fever, severe headache, chest pain or difficulty breathing, seek medical attention immediately. These could be signs of a more serious condition.