[25F] Experiencing cough, sore throat, and abdominal pain

Patient Description

A 25-year-old female presents with a moderate to severe cough that worsens at night or when lying down, accompanied by chest pain and a sore neck. The cough has been persistent for 4-5 days, is mostly dry with some yellow mucus, and is exacerbated by cold or cool drinks. Additionally, the patient reports cramping stomach pain around the belly button area, rated 4 out of 10 in severity, which is alleviated by heat and has been present for 2 days. The patient also experiences a hoarse voice, swollen and painful neck glands, chills, and shortness of breath. The patient has a history of chronic headaches/migraines and a severe allergy to Amoxicillin causing stomach pain and hives or rash. No current medications reported. The patient had a similar illness 2 weeks prior with sore throat, severe cough, tonsil stones, and sore neck glands.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the symptoms you've shared, here are some possible conditions:

  • Upper Respiratory Tract Infection: This is an infection that affects the throat, sinuses, and airways. It can cause symptoms like coughing, sore throat, and hoarseness. The fact that your cough is worse at night and when lying down is consistent with this condition.

    • Treatment usually involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter remedies to manage symptoms. If the infection is bacterial, antibiotics may be prescribed.
  • Gastroenteritis: This is an inflammation of the stomach and intestines, usually caused by a viral or bacterial infection. It can cause stomach pain, cramping, and diarrhea.

    • Treatment involves rest, hydration, and eating bland foods. In severe cases, medical attention may be required.
  • Tonsillitis: This is an inflammation of the tonsils, which are located in the back of the throat. It can cause symptoms like a sore throat, swollen glands in the neck, and a hoarse voice.

    • Treatment usually involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter pain relievers. If the tonsillitis is caused by a bacterial infection, antibiotics may be prescribed.

Please note that these are only possible conditions based on the symptoms you've shared. It's important to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis.

What you can do

  1. Rest and hydrate: These are key to recovery from many illnesses. Try to get plenty of sleep and drink lots of fluids.

  2. Over-the-counter remedies: Over-the-counter cough suppressants and pain relievers can help manage your symptoms.

  3. Warm liquids: Warm liquids like tea or soup can soothe a sore throat and help with hydration.

  4. Avoid triggers: If you notice that certain foods or drinks make your symptoms worse, try to avoid them.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

  • Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath that's getting worse
  • Severe chest pain
  • High fever (temperature over 100.4°F)
  • Symptoms that persist for more than a week or get worse

Remember, it's important to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

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1 yr ago

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People Also Ask


What are the common causes of a cough that worsens at night?

A cough that worsens at night can be caused by postnasal drip, asthma, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or an upper respiratory tract infection. Lying down can exacerbate these conditions, leading to increased coughing.


How can I differentiate between a viral and bacterial upper respiratory tract infection?

Viral infections often cause symptoms like a runny nose, cough, and sore throat, and they typically resolve on their own. Bacterial infections may present with more severe symptoms, such as high fever and persistent sore throat, and often require antibiotics for treatment. A healthcare provider can perform tests to determine the cause.


What home remedies can help alleviate a sore throat and hoarse voice?

Home remedies for a sore throat and hoarse voice include staying hydrated, drinking warm liquids like tea with honey, using a humidifier, gargling with salt water, and sucking on throat lozenges. Resting your voice can also help.


When should I seek medical attention for stomach pain and cramping?

Seek medical attention for stomach pain and cramping if the pain is severe, persistent, or accompanied by symptoms like high fever, vomiting, or blood in the stool. If the pain does not improve with home remedies or is worsening, it's important to consult a healthcare provider.


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