[62M] Experiencing severe dry cough and intermittent ear pain

What might be happening

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

• Upper Respiratory Tract Infection: This is a common cause of cough, fatigue, and ear pain. The infection can cause inflammation and swelling in the throat, leading to an enlarged gland. It's usually caused by a virus and can last for a few weeks.

  • Treatment typically involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter remedies to manage symptoms. If symptoms persist for more than a few weeks, further medical evaluation is necessary.

• Chronic Bronchitis: Given your history of bronchitis and asthma, it's possible that your cough and fatigue are due to chronic bronchitis, a type of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This condition is characterized by a long-term cough with mucus.

  • Treatment typically involves medications to open the airways and reduce inflammation, as well as lifestyle changes like quitting smoking and avoiding lung irritants.

• Ear Infection: Your ear pain could be due to an ear infection, especially if you're also experiencing symptoms like a fever or an enlarged gland in your throat.

  • Treatment typically involves antibiotics if the infection is bacterial. Over-the-counter pain relievers can also help manage symptoms.

Please note that these are just possibilities based on the symptoms you've described. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

What you can do

1. Rest and hydrate: These are key to recovery from any type of infection.
2. Over-the-counter remedies: These can help manage symptoms like a cough, ear pain, and fatigue.
3. Avoid lung irritants: If you smoke, try to quit. Avoid exposure to secondhand smoke and other lung irritants.
4. Consult with a healthcare professional: If your symptoms persist or worsen, it's important to seek medical attention. They may need to conduct further tests or adjust your current medications.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Coughing up blood
• High fever or chills
• Severe ear pain or discharge from the ear

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.