[32F] Experiencing respiratory and sinus symptoms

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, the most likely causes of your symptoms include:

• Common Cold: This is a viral infection of your nose and throat (upper respiratory tract). It's usually harmless, although it might not feel that way. Many types of viruses can cause a common cold. Symptoms of a common cold usually appear one to three days after exposure to a cold-causing virus and then resolve within a week.

  • Treatment for a common cold is focused on relieving symptoms and includes rest, hydration, and over-the-counter cold remedies.

• Sinusitis: This is an inflammation or swelling of the tissue lining the sinuses. Healthy sinuses are filled with air. But when they become blocked and filled with fluid, germs can grow and cause an infection. Conditions that can cause sinus blockage include the common cold, allergic rhinitis (swelling of the lining of the nose), nasal polyps (small growths in the lining of the nose), or a deviated septum (a shift in the nasal cavity).

  • Treatment for sinusitis depends on the cause. It may include saline nasal spray, nasal corticosteroids, decongestants, over-the-counter pain relievers, antibiotics, or immunotherapy for allergies.

• Allergies: Allergies occur when your immune system reacts to a foreign substance — such as pollen, bee venom or pet dander — or a food that doesn't cause a reaction in most people. Your immune system produces substances known as antibodies. When you have allergies, your immune system makes antibodies that identify a particular allergen as harmful, even though it isn't.

  • Treatment for allergies includes avoiding known allergens, over-the-counter antihistamines, decongestants, nasal sprays, and allergy shots.

What you can do

You should seek care from a healthcare professional to receive a formal diagnosis and treatment if appropriate. In the meantime, here are some things you can do to help alleviate your symptoms:

1. Rest and hydrate: Make sure you're getting plenty of sleep and drinking lots of fluids. This can help your body recover faster.

2. Over-the-counter remedies: Over-the-counter cold remedies can help with symptoms of a cold or allergies. Decongestants can help with a stuffy nose, and cough suppressants can help with a cough.

3. Warm liquids: Warm liquids such as tea or soup can help soothe a sore throat and loosen congestion.

What you should look out for

If your symptoms worsen or don't improve after a week, you should seek medical attention. Also, seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Chest pain or pressure
• Fainting or feeling lightheaded
• Confusion or disorientation
• Severe or persistent vomiting
• Severe sinus pain

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.