[31F] Experiencing respiratory and throat symptoms

Patient Description

A 31-year-old female presents with a constellation of symptoms including a swollen, itchy throat, nasal congestion, dry cough with occasional green thick mucus, morning wheezing that resolves after throat clearing, a swollen lymph node under the left jawline, itchy ears, and mild chest tightness at the top of the lungs. The patient reports severe itchiness in the ears and throat when swallowing or coughing, and hoarseness of voice that has persisted for 3 days and is exacerbated by talking. The cough is described as mild to moderate, dry but seemingly productive, and has been present for 4 days. The patient denies any fever, chills, or recent activities that could have strained the voice. The chest tightness is rated 2 out of 10 in severity and is only present when coughing. There is a history of similar ear itchiness and a family history of asthma in a sibling. The patient suspects the symptoms may be related to allergies or possibly laryngitis, noting that trees are currently blooming, although there has been limited outdoor exposure due to the patient's daughter being ill with influenza B last week. The patient has no known pre-existing conditions or chronic illnesses and is currently taking Metoprolol, Wellbutrin, Losartan, Seroquel, Trazodone, and Ativan. There is a known drug allergy to Lamictal.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the symptoms you've described, the following conditions could be possible:

  • Upper Respiratory Tract Infection (URTI): This is a common cause of symptoms such as a hoarse voice, cough, and nasal congestion. These infections are often caused by viruses and can lead to inflammation and irritation of the throat and nasal passages. The presence of green mucus could suggest a bacterial infection.

    • Treatment usually involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter remedies to manage symptoms. Antibiotics may be necessary if a bacterial infection is suspected.
  • Allergic Rhinitis: Given your itchy ears and throat, along with nasal congestion, this could be a possibility. Allergies can cause inflammation in the throat and nasal passages, leading to symptoms like yours.

    • Treatment typically involves avoiding known allergens and taking antihistamines to manage symptoms.
  • Laryngitis: Inflammation of the voice box (larynx) often leads to a hoarse voice. This can be caused by a viral infection or overuse of the voice, but in your case, it seems more likely to be related to an upper respiratory infection.

    • Treatment usually involves rest, hydration, and avoiding straining your voice.

What you can do

  1. Rest and hydrate: These are key in helping your body recover from an upper respiratory infection.
  2. Over-the-counter remedies: Decongestants can help with nasal congestion, while cough suppressants can help manage your cough.
  3. Avoid allergens: If your symptoms are due to allergies, avoiding known allergens can help reduce symptoms.
  4. Seek medical attention: If your symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical attention. Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics if a bacterial infection is suspected.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

  • Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
  • High fever
  • Symptoms that persist for more than a week or worsen over time
  • Difficulty swallowing or severe throat pain

Remember, while I strive to provide accurate information, I'm not a doctor. Please consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment.

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9 mo ago


People Also Ask


What are the common symptoms of an upper respiratory tract infection (URTI)?

Common symptoms of an upper respiratory tract infection include a sore throat, nasal congestion, cough, hoarseness, and sometimes green or yellow mucus. These infections are often viral but can occasionally be bacterial.


How can I differentiate between allergic rhinitis and a common cold?

Allergic rhinitis typically involves symptoms like itchy eyes, nose, and throat, along with sneezing and nasal congestion. A common cold may also cause congestion and a sore throat but is usually accompanied by a runny nose and sometimes a mild fever. Allergies do not cause fever.


What are the typical treatments for laryngitis?

Typical treatments for laryngitis include resting your voice, staying hydrated, and using humidifiers to keep the air moist. Over-the-counter pain relievers and throat lozenges can also help alleviate symptoms. Avoiding irritants like smoke and alcohol is recommended.


When should I seek medical attention for a swollen lymph node?

You should seek medical attention for a swollen lymph node if it persists for more than a couple of weeks, continues to enlarge, is hard or fixed in place, or is accompanied by symptoms like night sweats, unexplained weight loss, or a high fever.


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