[48F] Experiencing chronic cough and urinary incontinence

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible diagnoses include:

• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): This is a hormonal disorder common among women of reproductive age. Women with PCOS may have infrequent or prolonged menstrual periods or excess male hormone (androgen) levels. The ovaries may develop numerous small collections of fluid (follicles) and fail to regularly release eggs. Weight gain, irregular menstrual cycles, and hair loss are common symptoms of PCOS.

  • Treatment for PCOS usually involves lifestyle modifications like a healthy diet and regular exercise. Medications to regulate menstrual cycles and manage symptoms may also be prescribed.

• Hypothyroidism: This is a condition in which your thyroid gland doesn't produce enough of certain crucial hormones. Hypothyroidism may not cause noticeable symptoms in the early stages. Over time, untreated hypothyroidism can cause a number of health problems, such as obesity, joint pain, infertility and heart disease. Symptoms include fatigue, weight gain, hair loss, and irregular menstrual cycles.

  • Treatment for hypothyroidism usually involves daily use of the synthetic thyroid hormone levothyroxine.

• Stress Incontinence: This is a form of urinary incontinence caused by a loss of support of the urethra which is usually a consequence of damage to pelvic support structures as a result of childbirth. It is characterized by the leakage of small amounts of urine with activities which increase abdominal pressure such as coughing, sneezing and lifting.

  • Treatment for stress incontinence can involve pelvic floor exercises, bladder training, medications, or in some cases, surgery.

• Chronic Sinusitis: This is a common condition in which the cavities around nasal passages (sinuses) become inflamed and swollen for at least 12 weeks, despite treatment attempts. This condition interferes with drainage and causes mucus buildup. Breathing through your nose might be difficult and the area around your eyes might feel swollen or tender. Chronic sinusitis can be brought on by an infection, by growths in the sinuses (nasal polyps) or by a deviated nasal septum. The condition most commonly affects young and middle-aged adults, but it also can affect children.

  • Treatment for chronic sinusitis depends on the cause. It may include nasal corticosteroids, saline nasal irrigation, oral or injected corticosteroids, aspirin desensitization treatment, if you have reactions to aspirin that cause sinusitis. In some cases, surgery might be necessary.

• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): This is a chronic condition where stomach acid frequently flows back into the tube connecting your mouth and stomach (esophagus). This backwash (acid reflux) can irritate the lining of your esophagus. Symptoms include heartburn and acid reflux.

  • Treatment for GERD may include lifestyle changes, medications, or in some cases, surgery.

What you can do

1. Consult a healthcare professional: It's important to discuss your symptoms with a healthcare provider. They can provide a formal assessment and order relevant tests if necessary.

2. Lifestyle modifications: Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and maintaining a healthy weight can help manage symptoms of PCOS and hypothyroidism.

3. Pelvic floor exercises: These can help manage symptoms of stress incontinence.

4. Nasal irrigation: Continue this practice as it can help manage symptoms of chronic sinusitis.

5. Avoid trigger foods: If certain foods exacerbate your heartburn, try to avoid them.

What you should look out for

Reasons to see a healthcare provider more urgently:

• If your symptoms worsen or if you develop new symptoms
• If you notice blood in your urine or stool
• If you develop a fever (temperature over 100.4°F) or chills

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.