[43F] Experiencing severe cough and other flu-like symptoms

What might be happening

Based on the symptoms you've described, the following conditions could be possible:

• Common Cold: This is a viral infection that primarily affects the nose and throat. It is usually harmless and symptoms resolve within two weeks. Symptoms can include a runny or stuffy nose, cough, sore throat, and headache. However, loss of taste and smell is not a typical symptom of the common cold.

• Influenza (Flu): This is a more severe viral infection that can cause fever, chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, headaches, and body aches. Like the common cold, symptoms usually resolve on their own within two weeks.

• COVID-19: This is a viral infection caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and can include fever, cough, sore throat, headache, and loss of taste or smell. Given the current pandemic and your symptoms, especially the loss of taste and smell, it is important to consider this possibility.

What you can do

1. Rest and hydrate: Regardless of the cause, getting plenty of rest and staying hydrated can help your body fight off the infection.

2. Over-the-counter medication: You can continue taking Tylenol to help with your symptoms. However, please make sure you are not exceeding the recommended dosage.

3. Isolate: If you have not already done so, please isolate yourself from others to prevent potential spread of infection.

4. COVID-19 Test: Given your symptoms and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, it would be prudent to get a COVID-19 test.

What you should look out for

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

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Persistent pain or pressure in your chest
• New confusion or inability to arouse
• Bluish lips or face

Please remember that while I strive to provide accurate information, I am not a doctor. You should consult with a healthcare provider for a formal diagnosis and treatment.