[35F] Experiencing severe nasal congestion, nausea, vomiting, and migraines

What might be happening

Based on the symptoms you've described, here are a few possibilities:

• Common Cold or Upper Respiratory Tract Infection: This is often characterized by a stuffy or runny nose, sore throat, cough, congestion, body aches, headache, and sometimes vomiting due to post-nasal drip. It's usually caused by a viral infection.

  • Treatment typically involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter remedies to manage symptoms. Antibiotics are not effective against viral infections.

• Sinusitis: This is an inflammation or swelling of the tissue lining the sinuses, often caused by a viral or bacterial infection. Symptoms can include headache, nasal congestion, thick nasal mucus, a sore throat, and sometimes nausea or vomiting.

  • Treatment can include nasal decongestants, pain relievers, and in some cases, antibiotics if a bacterial infection is suspected.

• Migraine: You mentioned a history of migraines, and your current headache could be a migraine attack. Migraines can sometimes be accompanied by nausea and sensitivity to light.

  • Treatment typically involves rest, avoiding triggers, and taking prescribed or over-the-counter migraine medication.

What you can do

1. Rest and hydrate: This can help your body recover if you're dealing with a cold or sinusitis.
2. Over-the-counter remedies: Decongestants, pain relievers, and cough suppressants can help manage your symptoms.
3. Avoid triggers: If your headache is a migraine, try to avoid any known triggers and take your usual migraine medication if you have it.
4. Seek medical attention: If your symptoms persist or worsen, or if you develop new symptoms such as a high fever, severe headache, chest pain, or difficulty breathing, seek medical attention immediately.

What you should look out for

• High fever (temperature over 100.4°F)
• Severe headache
• Chest pain
• Difficulty breathing
• Symptoms persisting for more than a week or worsening

Please remember that 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.