[34F] Recurrent respiratory infections with persistent sore throat

Patient Description

A 34-year-old female presents with a history of recurrent respiratory infections since December, experiencing cycles of illness and temporary improvement with antibiotics and steroids. The patient reports a severe sore throat, predominantly on the right side, which is very painful to swallow and is associated with increased saliva production. The sore throat is worse in the mornings and evenings, accompanied by fever and chills. The patient also describes a sensation of being underwater, clogged ears, and a new type of headache starting at the base of the skull and radiating to the middle of the forehead. There is no history of recent ear injury or exposure to loud noises. The patient was evaluated in the ER recently for these symptoms, and a test for strep throat returned negative.

Show More

Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on your symptoms, here are some possible conditions:

  • Tonsillitis: This is inflammation of the tonsils, which can cause a sore throat, difficulty swallowing, and ear pain. It's often caused by a viral infection, but can also be caused by bacteria. A negative strep test suggests that if this is tonsillitis, it's likely viral.

    • Treatment usually involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter pain relievers. Antibiotics may be needed if the cause is bacterial.

  • Pharyngitis: This is inflammation of the back of the throat, which can cause a sore throat and difficulty swallowing. It's often caused by a viral infection, but can also be caused by bacteria.

    • Treatment usually involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter pain relievers. Antibiotics may be needed if the cause is bacterial.

  • Ear Infection: This can cause ear pain, feeling of fullness in the ear, and sometimes difficulty hearing. It's often caused by a viral or bacterial infection.

    • Treatment usually involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter pain relievers. Antibiotics may be needed if the cause is bacterial.

What you can do

  1. Rest and stay hydrated. This can help your body fight off the infection and recover.
  2. Use over-the-counter pain relievers to help with the pain and fever.
  3. Try a warm compress on your ear to help with the pain.
  4. Gargle with warm salt water to soothe your sore throat.

What you should look out for

You should seek immediate medical attention if:

  • Your symptoms worsen or do not improve after a few days.
  • You have difficulty breathing.
  • You are unable to swallow liquids or saliva.
  • You have severe pain or swelling in your throat or ear.

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 recommendations.

Show More

1
 Hugs
0
 Comments

Save

9 mo ago

People Also Ask

What are the common causes of recurrent respiratory infections?

Recurrent respiratory infections can be caused by a variety of factors including weakened immune system, allergies, exposure to irritants like smoke, and underlying conditions such as asthma or chronic sinusitis.

How can I differentiate between viral and bacterial tonsillitis?

Viral tonsillitis often presents with milder symptoms and may be accompanied by cold-like symptoms such as a runny nose or cough. Bacterial tonsillitis, such as strep throat, typically causes more severe symptoms, including high fever and swollen lymph nodes. A throat swab test can help determine the cause.

What home remedies can help alleviate a sore throat?

Home remedies for a sore throat include gargling with warm salt water, staying hydrated, using a humidifier, drinking warm teas with honey, and sucking on throat lozenges. Over-the-counter pain relievers can also help manage pain.

When should I seek medical attention for ear pain?

You should seek medical attention for ear pain if it is severe, persistent, accompanied by high fever, or if you experience hearing loss, dizziness, or discharge from the ear. These could be signs of a more serious infection or condition.

No comments yet

Be the first one to comment

Share your feedback

All Stories

Experiencing symptoms?

Our AI will conduct a medical interview and assess what might be happening. You can also make a post afterwards.

Share your feedback