[23M] With mouth sores, sneezing, and nasal congestion

What might be happening

Based on the symptoms you've described, here are some possible explanations:

Mouth Sores

• Canker Sores (Aphthous Ulcers): These are small, painful ulcers that can appear inside your mouth. They are not contagious and often resolve on their own within 1-2 weeks. Common triggers include stress, minor mouth injuries, acidic or spicy foods, and certain medical conditions.
• Viral Infections: Sometimes, viral infections like the common cold or herpes simplex virus can cause mouth sores. Given that you are also experiencing sneezing and nasal congestion, a viral infection could be a unifying diagnosis.

Sneezing and Stuffy Nose

• Allergic Rhinitis: This condition is caused by an allergic reaction to airborne substances like pollen, dust, or pet dander. Symptoms include sneezing, nasal congestion, runny nose, and post-nasal drip. Even if you haven't identified specific triggers, new environments can expose you to new allergens.
• Viral Upper Respiratory Infection (Common Cold): This is a likely cause given your symptoms of sneezing, nasal congestion, runny nose, and post-nasal drip. Viral infections can also sometimes cause mouth sores.

What you can do

Mouth Sores

• Avoid Irritants: Stay away from spicy, acidic, or rough-textured foods that can irritate your mouth sores.
• Oral Hygiene: Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing your teeth gently and using a soft-bristled toothbrush.
• Topical Treatments: Over-the-counter topical treatments like benzocaine (Orajel) can help numb the pain. Antiseptic mouthwashes can also help prevent infection.
• Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain.

Sneezing and Stuffy Nose

• Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated and help thin mucus.
• Nasal Irrigation: Use a saline nasal spray or a neti pot to rinse out your nasal passages.
• Allergy Medications: Over-the-counter antihistamines like cetirizine (Zyrtec) or loratadine (Claritin) can help if allergies are suspected.
• Rest: Ensure you get plenty of rest to help your body fight off any potential infection.

What you should look out for

While your symptoms are not immediately life-threatening, you should seek medical care if you experience any of the following:

• Persistent or Worsening Symptoms: If your symptoms do not improve or worsen over the next few days, consult a healthcare provider.
• High Fever: If you develop a high fever, it could indicate a more serious infection.
• Difficulty Breathing: If you experience shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, seek medical attention immediately.
• Severe Pain: If the pain from your mouth sores becomes unbearable or if you notice any signs of infection (e.g., increased redness, swelling, or pus), see a doctor.

Remember, while I can provide information and suggestions, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment plan. You can use MDandMe to journal your symptoms, track your progress, get insights, and share your medical notes with your provider.