[40F] Experiencing headache and nasal congestion

What might be happening

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

• Common Cold: This is a viral infection that primarily affects your nose and throat. Symptoms can include a runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, fatigue, and headaches.

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

• Sinusitis: This is an inflammation or swelling of the tissue lining the sinuses. When they become blocked and filled with fluid, germs can grow and cause an infection. Symptoms can include a headache, particularly in the front of the head and around the eyes, a runny or stuffy nose, and fatigue.

  • Treatment can include nasal decongestants, steam inhalation, and staying well hydrated.

• Influenza (Flu): This is a viral infection that attacks your respiratory system. Symptoms can include a headache, fatigue, and a runny or stuffy nose.

  • Treatment usually involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter remedies to manage symptoms. Antiviral medication may be prescribed by a doctor if the flu is caught early enough.

What you can do

While you should seek care from a health professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment, here are some things you can do to help alleviate your symptoms:

1. Rest and hydrate: This can help your body fight off an infection and speed up your recovery.
2. Over-the-counter remedies: These can help manage your symptoms. For example, pain relievers can help with your headache and decongestants can help with your stuffy nose.
3. Steam inhalation: This can help clear your sinuses if they are blocked.

What you should look out for

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

• Severe headache or a headache that gets progressively worse
• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• High fever (temperature over 100.4°F)
• Symptoms that last more than a week or get worse instead of better

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.