Persistent Upper Respiratory Challenges Leaving Doctors Puzzled
A 60-year-old individual, who doesn't smoke and uses no drugs, consumes alcohol moderately, is a Caucasian standing at 5 feet 4 inches tall and weighing 135 pounds, is experiencing significant health issues following a severe COVID-19 infection in 2021. Since then, their overall health has deteriorated noticeably. Currently, they are suffering from a blocked left nostril and ear, alongside a hoarse voice. Despite consulting doctors, who have found no apparent problems, and confirming that their Eustachian tubes and sinuses are functioning properly, they remain perplexed. A hearing test is on the horizon, yet questions linger about the cause of their symptoms. They have pursued various treatments, including the most extensive sinus surgery known as Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS), as well as medications like Flonase, Afrin, Sufaded, several nasal and sinus rinses, and Mucinex, but have seen no improvement in their condition.
Answers (1)
6/10/2025, 5:40:44 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you've been through quite a lot since your COVID-19 infection, and I can understand how frustrating it must be to experience ongoing symptoms without clear answers. Your blocked nostril, ear pressure, and hoarse voice can stem from a range of issues, particularly following a viral illness like COVID-19. Here’s a breakdown of the situation and some steps to consider.
Main Points:
- Post-Viral Symptoms: Your symptoms may be a result of lingering effects from the COVID-19 infection, often categorized as post-viral syndrome.
- Nasal and Sinus Health: Continuing nasal congestion and Eustachian tube dysfunction can contribute to ear pressure and voice changes.
- Next Steps: Focus on symptom management and monitoring for any new changes. Some techniques and lifestyle adjustments may help.
Explanation:
After a severe infection like COVID-19, it's not uncommon for some individuals to experience prolonged symptoms, including nasal congestion and respiratory changes. Even with a clear medical evaluation, inflammation and sensitivity in the upper respiratory tract can persist. Conditions like chronic rhinosinusitis or even allergies can develop or worsen after such infections. In addition, stress and anxiety about health can exacerbate physical symptoms.
Prioritized Next Steps:
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Symptom Diary: Keep a detailed diary of your symptoms, noting their severity, triggers, and any patterns. This can help identify any correlations with environmental factors or activities.
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Nasal Irrigation: Continue regular use of saline nasal rinses, as they can help reduce congestion and keep the nasal passages moist. Consider using a Neti pot or saline spray several times a day.
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Steam Inhalation: Try inhaling steam from hot water or using a humidifier to relieve nasal and sinus congestion. This can soothe irritated tissues.
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Voice Care: Rest your voice and avoid whispering, which can strain your vocal cords. Stay hydrated and consider honey or throat lozenges to soothe irritation.
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Monitoring Changes: Pay close attention to any new developments. Note any increase in ear pain, dizziness, or significant changes to your hearing. These changes should be reported to your healthcare provider.
If your symptoms persist without improvement or worsen, it may be worthwhile to explore other specialists, such as an allergist or a specialist in chronic respiratory conditions, who may offer different perspectives or treatments tailored to your history.
I'm here to support you in navigating this. Let me know if you need additional advice or clarification!
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