[22M] Experiencing sore throat, phlegmy cough, and chills

What might be happening

Based on your symptoms, here are a few possible conditions:

• Common Cold: This is a viral infection of your nose and throat (upper respiratory tract). It's usually harmless, although it might not feel that way. Many types of viruses can cause a common cold. Symptoms of a cold may include a runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, cough, sore throat, and general fatigue.

  • Treatment is usually focused on relief of symptoms and may include rest, hydration, and over-the-counter cold remedies.

• Influenza (Flu): This is a viral infection that attacks your respiratory system — your nose, throat and lungs. Influenza is commonly called the flu, but it's not the same as stomach "flu" viruses that cause diarrhea and vomiting. It can cause severe illness and life-threatening complications in many people. Symptoms can be similar to a cold but are usually more severe and come on more suddenly.

  • Treatment may include antiviral medication if started early, rest, and hydration.

• Strep Throat: This is a bacterial infection that can make your throat feel sore and scratchy. It is often marked by a severe sore throat, fever, and white patches in the throat but can sometimes present with a cough as well.

  • Treatment typically involves antibiotics.

• Pneumonia: This is an infection that inflames the air sacs in one or both lungs which may fill with fluid. It can be caused by a variety of organisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Given your roommate's diagnosis, it's possible that you could have contracted a contagious form of pneumonia, but your symptoms are not typical.

  • Treatment depends on the severity and cause of the pneumonia, but can include antibiotics, antivirals, or antifungals.

What you can do

You should seek care from a healthcare professional to receive a formal diagnosis and treatment if appropriate. In the meantime, here are some things you can do to help manage your symptoms:

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 alleviate symptoms like a runny nose, congestion, and body aches.
3. Avoid spreading the illness: Wash your hands regularly and avoid close contact with others to prevent them from getting sick.

What you should look out for

If your symptoms worsen or you start to experience any of the following, you should seek medical attention immediately:

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Severe or persistent vomiting
• Confusion or changes in mental function
• Very high fever or a fever that lasts more than a few days

Remember, while I strive to provide accurate information, I'm not a doctor and this advice is not a substitute for professional medical advice.