[31F] Experiencing voice loss, congestion, and plugged ears

Patient Description

A 31-year-old female is experiencing significant voice loss, making it difficult and energy-consuming to talk, with her throat feeling worn out. This symptom has been present for 2 days. Alongside voice loss, the patient reports nasal congestion, a runny nose with green discharge, and plugged ears, which was only noticed today when one ear 'popped,' improving hearing on one side. The patient also mentions experiencing sweats and chills but denies any recent yelling, straining of the voice, exposure to sick individuals, or environmental irritants. There is no difficulty in breathing or swallowing, and no severe pain in the throat or chest. The patient has no known pre-existing conditions, chronic illnesses, or current medication use.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on your symptoms, the following conditions could be possible:

  • Common Cold: This is a viral infection that primarily affects the nose and throat. Symptoms typically include a runny nose, congestion, voice loss, and sometimes a low-grade fever. It's usually harmless and symptoms should resolve on their own within a week or two.

    • Treatment typically involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter cold remedies to help manage symptoms.
  • Acute Sinusitis: This is an inflammation or swelling of the tissue lining the sinuses, often caused by a viral infection. Symptoms can include a runny or stuffy nose, loss of smell, cough or congestion, and sometimes a fever.

    • Treatment usually involves managing symptoms with over-the-counter remedies, staying hydrated, and rest. If symptoms persist for more than a week or get worse, you should seek medical attention.
  • Laryngitis: This is an inflammation of the voice box (larynx) from overuse, irritation, or infection. It can cause voice loss and throat discomfort.

    • Treatment typically involves resting your voice and staying hydrated. If symptoms persist for more than a week, you should seek medical attention.

What you can do

While you should seek medical attention for a formal diagnosis, here are some things you can do in the meantime:

  1. Rest your voice as much as possible.
  2. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids like water or warm tea.
  3. Use a humidifier to moisten your nasal, throat, and voice box tissues.
  4. Avoid substances that can irritate your throat like cigarette smoke or alcohol.
  5. Over-the-counter remedies like decongestants can help with nasal congestion.

What you should look out for

Please seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

  • Difficulty breathing or swallowing
  • A high fever (over 101.5°F)
  • Symptoms that last more than a week or get worse
  • Severe pain in your throat or chest
  • Blood in your mucus or saliva

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 causes of voice loss?

Voice loss can be caused by laryngitis, which is inflammation of the voice box due to overuse, irritation, or infection. Other causes include viral infections like the common cold, allergies, or exposure to irritants such as smoke.


How can I differentiate between a common cold and acute sinusitis?

A common cold typically involves symptoms like a runny nose, congestion, and sometimes a low-grade fever, while acute sinusitis may include more severe nasal congestion, facial pain or pressure, and a reduced sense of smell. Sinusitis symptoms often last longer and may require medical attention if they persist.


What home remedies can help alleviate symptoms of laryngitis?

Home remedies for laryngitis include resting your voice, staying hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, using a humidifier to keep the air moist, and avoiding irritants like smoke. Warm teas with honey can also soothe the throat.


When should I seek medical attention for my symptoms?

You should seek medical attention if you experience difficulty breathing or swallowing, a high fever over 101.5°F, symptoms that last more than a week or worsen, severe pain in your throat or chest, or if you notice blood in your mucus or saliva.


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1 Comments


Margot#4035

9 mo ago

I've had similar symptoms throughout my 20s and usually just got better without treatment but once I had a scare when my my ear started hurting and I heard fluid in it. Turns out i had bacterial sinusitis and my doctor prescribed me antibiotics and said it was good that i went in otherwise the infection might have spread further and caused permanent damage. So I guess you probably know the drill but don't hesitate to see your pcp if you feel like your situation is worsening or just weird

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