[33F] Experiencing nasal and throat congestion with mild fever

What might be happening

Based on your symptoms, the most likely causes could be:

• Common Cold: This is a viral infection of your nose and throat. It's usually harmless, although it might not feel that way. Common cold is characterized by runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, cough, congestion, slight body aches or a mild headache, sneezing, low-grade fever, and general feeling of being unwell.

  • Treatment typically involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter cold remedies to help manage your symptoms.

• Sinusitis: This is an inflammation or swelling of the tissue lining the sinuses. It can cause nasal congestion, thick nasal mucus, a plugged nose, and facial pain. It often follows a cold and can flare up on its own. The green color of your mucus could be an indication of a bacterial infection, which can occur in some cases of sinusitis.

  • Treatment can involve antibiotics if it's caused by a bacterial infection, nasal decongestants, and pain relievers.

• Influenza (Flu): This is a viral infection that attacks your respiratory system. Symptoms can be very similar to a common cold, but the flu is usually more severe and comes on more suddenly.

  • Treatment typically involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter flu remedies. In some cases, antiviral medication might be prescribed.

What you can do

You should continue to rest and hydrate. Over-the-counter decongestants and pain relievers may help with your symptoms. If your symptoms persist for more than a week, or if they get worse, you should seek medical attention.

What you should look out for

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

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Pain or pressure in your chest or abdomen
• Sudden dizziness
• Confusion
• Severe or persistent vomiting
• Flu-like symptoms that improve but then return with fever and worse cough

Please remember that while I strive to provide accurate information, I'm not a doctor and this advice should not replace a consultation with a healthcare professional.