[26F] Experiencing respiratory and sinus symptoms

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible diagnoses include:

• Sinusitis: This is an inflammation or swelling of the tissue lining the sinuses. It can cause headaches, facial pain, and trouble breathing due to nasal congestion. The fact that you've been experiencing sinus pain and headaches, along with a feeling of pressure in your nose, suggests this could be a possibility.

  • Treatment usually involves the use of decongestants, pain relievers, and sometimes antibiotics if a bacterial infection is suspected.

• Common Cold: This viral infection of your nose and throat can cause a runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, cough, congestion, body aches, and mild headache. Given your symptoms, this could be a possibility.

  • Treatment for a common cold usually involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter cold remedies to help with symptoms.

• Influenza (Flu): This is a viral infection that attacks your respiratory system. Symptoms can be similar to a common cold, but the flu tends to be more severe. Your symptoms of malaise and fatigue are common in flu, but you've mentioned not having a fever, which is a common symptom of the flu.

  • Treatment usually involves rest, hydration, and sometimes antiviral medications if diagnosed early.

• Allergic Rhinitis: This is an allergic response to specific allergens. It can cause a runny nose, sneezing, and congestion, among other symptoms. You've mentioned using Flonase, which is often used to treat this condition.

  • Treatment usually involves avoiding known allergens and using medications to control 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 sinusitis, a cold, or the flu.
3. Continue Flonase: If you've been prescribed Flonase for a previous diagnosis of allergic rhinitis, it would be good to continue as directed by your doctor.
4. Monitor symptoms: Keep an eye on your symptoms. If they worsen or you develop new symptoms, seek medical attention.

What you should look out for

• If your symptoms persist for more than a week
• If your symptoms significantly worsen
• If you develop a high fever
• If you have difficulty breathing

Remember, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may not apply to your situation. Always consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate examination, testing, and care.