[23F] Experiencing respiratory and ear symptoms with recent fever

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, here are some possible explanations for your symptoms:

• Common Cold: This is a viral infection of your nose and throat. It's usually harmless, although it might not feel that way. Common cold symptoms might include a runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, cough, congestion, slight body aches or a mild headache, sneezing, low-grade fever, and generally feeling unwell (malaise).

  • Treatment: There's no cure for a common cold, but you can relieve your symptoms by resting, staying hydrated, and using over-the-counter cold remedies.

• Influenza (Flu): The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. The flu is different from a cold. Flu symptoms are usually worse than a common cold and can include fever or feeling feverish/chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches, fatigue (tiredness), and some people may have vomiting and diarrhea.

  • Treatment: Antiviral drugs can lessen symptoms and shorten the time you are sick by 1 or 2 days. They also can prevent serious flu complications.

• Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19): COVID-19 is a respiratory illness that can spread from person to person. The virus that causes COVID-19 is a novel coronavirus that was first identified during an investigation into an outbreak in Wuhan, China. Symptoms can range from mild to severe, and may appear 2-14 days after exposure. They include fever, cough, and shortness of breath.

  • Treatment: There's currently no specific treatment for COVID-19. You should self-isolate and rest, stay hydrated, and use over-the-counter medication to help with symptoms.

What you can do

1. Rest and hydrate: Regardless of the cause, resting and staying hydrated can help your body recover.
2. Over-the-counter remedies: Over-the-counter cold remedies can help with symptoms of a cold, flu, or COVID-19.
3. Self-isolate: If you suspect you have the flu or COVID-19, it's important to stay away from others as much as possible to prevent spreading the virus.

What you should look out for

If your symptoms worsen or you develop new symptoms, you should seek medical attention. This includes:

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

Please remember that while I strive to provide accurate information, I'm not a doctor and this advice should not replace a consultation with a healthcare professional.