[33M] Experiencing severe congestion and vomiting

Patient Description

A 33-year-old male has been suffering from severe nasal congestion and daily vomiting for the past three years. He reports a constant cough and the need to expel mucus throughout the day and night, which varies in color from clear to yellow and green. The patient has a long-standing history of asthma, diagnosed at birth, and is currently a smoker. He notes that his congestion symptoms worsen with allergies but has not identified any specific food triggers for his vomiting. Additionally, he experiences facial pain and headaches related to his congestion but denies any vision changes or severe headaches. There is no reported weight loss or blood in the mucus. The patient has not mentioned any effective treatments for his symptoms and does not take any medications other than Albuterol for asthma. There is no family history of respiratory or gastrointestinal diseases, and the patient has no known drug allergies.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

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

  • Chronic Rhinosinusitis: This is a common condition characterized by inflammation of the nose and sinuses for 12 weeks or longer. Symptoms often include nasal congestion, facial pain, and coughing up mucus. Smoking and allergies can worsen this condition.

    • Treatment typically involves medications to reduce inflammation and control symptoms, such as nasal corticosteroids, saline nasal irrigation, and antibiotics.
  • Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): This condition occurs when stomach acid frequently flows back into the tube connecting your mouth and stomach (esophagus). This backwash (acid reflux) can irritate the lining of your esophagus and cause symptoms like vomiting, especially in the morning.

    • Treatment usually involves lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medications. If these don't help, stronger medications or even surgery might be necessary.
  • Asthma: Asthma is a condition in which your airways narrow and swell and produce extra mucus. This can make breathing difficult and trigger coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath. Your history of asthma and allergies could be contributing to your symptoms.

    • Treatment involves managing symptoms with medications like Albuterol, which you're already taking, and avoiding triggers.

What you can do

  • Consult a doctor about your symptoms so that they can provide a formal assessment and order relevant tests if necessary.
  • Try to quit smoking, as it can worsen both rhinosinusitis and asthma.
  • Consider trying over-the-counter antacids or H2 blockers for your vomiting, but only after discussing with your doctor.
  • Try to identify and avoid allergens that worsen your congestion.

What you should look out for

  • If you notice blood in your mucus or vomit, seek immediate medical attention.
  • If your symptoms worsen or you develop new symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, or severe headaches, seek immediate medical attention.
  • If your weight gain is rapid and unexplained, consult a doctor as it could be a sign of a more serious condition.

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.

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10 mo ago

People Also Ask


What are the common symptoms of chronic rhinosinusitis?

Common symptoms of chronic rhinosinusitis include nasal congestion, facial pain or pressure, reduced sense of smell, and nasal discharge. It can also cause coughing and mucus production.


How does smoking affect asthma and nasal congestion?

Smoking can worsen asthma by irritating the airways, leading to increased inflammation and mucus production. It can also exacerbate nasal congestion by irritating the nasal passages and sinuses.


What lifestyle changes can help manage GERD symptoms?

Lifestyle changes to manage GERD include avoiding foods and drinks that trigger reflux, eating smaller meals, not lying down immediately after eating, losing weight if overweight, and quitting smoking.


When should I seek medical attention for my symptoms?

You should seek medical attention if you notice blood in your mucus or vomit, if your symptoms worsen, or if you develop new symptoms such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, or severe headaches.


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