[35F] Experiencing nausea, cough, and other symptoms

What might be happening

Based on the information you provided, here are a few possibilities:

• Anxiety or Panic Disorder: These conditions can cause a variety of physical symptoms, including nausea, lightheadedness, difficulty breathing, and chest pain. The medications you're taking (Zoloft, hydroxyzine, and gabapentin) are often used to manage anxiety disorders.

  • Treatment typically involves a combination of medication and cognitive-behavioral therapy.

• Allergic Reaction: The blotchy, red, itchy skin could be a sign of an allergic reaction. However, this would typically also involve swelling of the face, lips, or tongue, which you did not report.

  • Treatment involves avoiding the allergen and taking antihistamines to manage symptoms. In severe cases, an epinephrine autoinjector may be needed.

• Viral Infection: Your symptoms of cough, nausea, lightheadedness, and chills could be due to a viral infection, such as the flu.

  • Treatment usually involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medication to manage symptoms.

• Musculoskeletal Strain: Your neck and back pain could be due to strain from physical activity, such as picking up your child.

  • Treatment usually involves rest, physical therapy, and over-the-counter pain relievers.

What you can do

1. Continue taking your prescribed medications and follow your doctor's instructions.
2. Try to identify any potential allergens in your environment that could be causing your skin symptoms.
3. Rest and stay hydrated to help your body recover if you have a viral infection.
4. Practice good posture and lifting techniques to prevent further strain on your neck and back.

What you should look out for

Please seek immediate medical attention if:

• Your symptoms worsen or do not improve after a few days.
• You develop new symptoms, such as high fever, severe chest pain, or difficulty breathing.
• You experience swelling of the face, lips, or tongue, which could indicate a severe allergic reaction.

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.