[50F] Experiencing respiratory symptoms and sweating

Patient Description

A 50-year-old female presents with a clear, runny nose that began 5 days ago, with fluctuating severity. She also reports moderate coughing with thin clear sputum production, and sweating down her forehead and back while performing simple tasks for the past two days. The patient has experienced hot flashes at work. She denies any fever, wheezing, or shortness of breath. The patient has a history of a hysterectomy in 2013. She visited urgent care recently, testing negative for influenza A/B and COVID-19, and was prescribed Tessalon Perles and recommended OTC Theraflu. No known triggers for the runny nose were identified, and no other symptoms were reported.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

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

  • Common Cold: This is a viral infection of your nose and throat. It's usually harmless, although it might not feel that way. Symptoms of a common cold can be very similar to the flu and can include a runny or stuffy nose, cough, and body aches.

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

  • Allergic Rhinitis: This is an allergic response to specific allergens. It is often seasonal (hay fever), but can also occur year-round. Symptoms can include a runny nose, sneezing, and sweating.

    • Treatment can include avoiding known allergens and taking over-the-counter or prescription allergy medications.

  • Menopause: You mentioned experiencing sweating and hot flashes. These are common symptoms of menopause, which is a natural biological process marking the end of menstrual cycles. It's diagnosed after you've gone 12 months without a menstrual period.

    • Treatment can include hormone therapy, medications to help with symptoms, and lifestyle changes.

What you can do

  1. Continue to monitor your symptoms. If they persist or worsen, please consult with a healthcare provider.
  2. Stay hydrated and rest as much as possible to help your body recover.
  3. Over-the-counter cold remedies can help with symptoms of a cold.
  4. If you suspect allergies, try to avoid known allergens and consider over-the-counter or prescription allergy medications.
  5. If you suspect menopause, consider speaking with a healthcare provider about treatment options.

What you should look out for

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

  • Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
  • High fever (over 100.4°F)
  • Severe headache, chest pain, or abdominal pain
  • Symptoms that persist for more than a week or worsen over time

Please remember that while I strive to provide accurate information, I'm not a doctor and this advice should not replace a consultation with a healthcare professional.

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9 mo ago

People Also Ask

What are the common symptoms of a cold and how can they be managed?

Common symptoms of a cold include a runny or stuffy nose, cough, sore throat, and body aches. Management typically involves rest, staying hydrated, and using over-the-counter cold remedies to alleviate symptoms.

How can I differentiate between a cold and allergic rhinitis?

A cold often includes symptoms like a sore throat and body aches, while allergic rhinitis is characterized by sneezing, itchy eyes, and a runny nose triggered by allergens. Allergy symptoms can be managed by avoiding allergens and using antihistamines.

What are the typical symptoms of menopause and how can they be treated?

Typical symptoms of menopause include hot flashes, night sweats, mood changes, and irregular periods. Treatment options include hormone therapy, lifestyle changes, and medications to manage symptoms.

When should I seek medical attention for respiratory symptoms?

Seek medical attention if you experience difficulty breathing, a high fever over 100.4°F, severe headache, chest or abdominal pain, or if symptoms persist for more than a week or worsen over time.

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