[24F] Severe nasal congestion with cough and chest pain

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, mild headache, sneezing, low-grade fever, and generally feeling unwell.

  • Over-the-counter cold remedies can help you feel better, but they won't make your cold go away any faster. Keep in mind, also, that cold remedies might not work for everyone.

• Influenza (Flu): Influenza 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. For most people, the flu resolves on its own. But sometimes, influenza and its complications can be deadly.

  • Antiviral drugs can lessen symptoms and shorten the time you are sick by a day or two. They may also prevent serious flu complications.

• COVID-19: This is a novel coronavirus that has been causing worldwide pandemic. Symptoms can range from mild (or no symptoms) to severe illness. You can become infected by coming into close contact (about 6 feet or two arm lengths) with a person who has COVID-19. COVID-19 is primarily spread from person to person. You can become infected from respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. You may also be able to get it by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it, and then by touching your mouth, nose, or eyes.

  • Most people with mild symptoms can recover at home. If you are feeling sick, have a fever, cough, or shortness of breath, call your healthcare provider. If you are having trouble breathing, seek immediate medical care.

What you can do

• Rest and hydrate: Make sure to get plenty of sleep and stay hydrated. Drink fluids like water, tea, or soup.
• Over-the-counter medication: Continue taking over-the-counter medication to help with your symptoms. However, if your symptoms persist or get worse, you should seek medical attention.
• Isolate: If you suspect you have COVID-19, it's important to stay home and avoid contact with others to prevent the spread of the virus.

What you should look out for

• If your symptoms persist or get worse: If your symptoms do not improve after a week or they get worse, you should seek medical attention.
• Difficulty breathing: If you experience difficulty breathing, this is a more serious symptom and you should seek immediate medical attention.
• High fever: If you develop a high fever, you should seek medical attention.

Remember, I'm an AI and this advice is based on the information you've given me. It's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.