[43F] Experiencing headache, post nasal drip, and chills

Patient Description

A 43-year-old female reports a dull headache localized around the eyes, which worsens with coughing. The headache began today and is rated as mild in severity. Accompanying symptoms include post nasal drip without nasal congestion and chills. The patient has experienced similar headaches in the past. There is no facial pain, fever, vision changes, or significant medical history. The patient has allergies to latex and pertussis but is not currently on any medications.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

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

  • Common Cold: The common cold is a viral infection that primarily affects your nose and throat. It's usually harmless and symptoms resolve within two weeks. Symptoms can include a runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, cough, mild headache, fatigue, and feeling unwell (malaise).

    • Rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications can help 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 around the eyes, and post nasal drip.

    • Treatment often involves the use of over-the-counter remedies, nasal irrigation, and sometimes antibiotics if a bacterial infection is suspected.
  • Allergies: Allergies can cause similar symptoms to a cold, including post nasal drip and headaches. Given your known allergies, it's possible that you've been exposed to an allergen.

    • Treatment involves avoiding known allergens and taking antihistamines to manage symptoms.

What you can do

  1. Rest and stay hydrated. This can help your body fight off an infection if that's the cause of your symptoms.
  2. Over-the-counter remedies can help manage symptoms of a cold or allergies. These can include decongestants, pain relievers, and antihistamines.
  3. If your symptoms persist for more than a week, worsen, or are accompanied by a high fever, severe headache, chest pain or other worrying symptoms, seek medical attention.

What you should look out for

  • If your symptoms persist for more than a week, worsen, or are accompanied by a high fever, severe headache, chest pain or other worrying symptoms, seek medical attention.
  • If you develop difficulty breathing, seek immediate medical attention.

Remember, while I strive to provide accurate information, I'm an AI and not a doctor. Always consult with a healthcare provider for a formal diagnosis and treatment.

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10 mo ago

People Also Ask


What are the common symptoms of sinusitis?

Common symptoms of sinusitis include a headache around the eyes, post nasal drip, nasal congestion, facial pain or pressure, and sometimes a reduced sense of smell. If the sinusitis is due to an infection, you might also experience fever and thick nasal discharge.


How can I differentiate between a common cold and allergies?

A common cold often includes symptoms like a runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, cough, and mild headache, while allergies typically cause itchy eyes, sneezing, and clear nasal discharge. Allergies are often triggered by exposure to specific allergens, whereas a cold is caused by a viral infection.


What over-the-counter remedies can help with post nasal drip?

Over-the-counter remedies for post nasal drip include antihistamines, decongestants, and nasal saline sprays. These can help reduce mucus production and relieve symptoms.


When should I seek medical attention for a headache?

You should seek medical attention for a headache if it persists for more than a week, worsens, or is accompanied by a high fever, severe headache, chest pain, or other concerning symptoms. Immediate medical attention is necessary if you experience difficulty breathing.


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