Tips for Coping with Lingering COVID Symptoms
I’m a 44-year-old individual, generally healthy, non-smoker, and I’m not on any medications. I contracted COVID for the first time at the end of April and I'm still experiencing the aftermath. This past weekend, I noticed I’ve lost my sense of taste and smell. My most distressing symptom is the pressure in my ears, which often feels like they’re clogged. I also have a persistent sensation of sinus congestion, alongside nasal drainage, frequent coughing, and an unusual level of fatigue compared to my usual state. I’ve visited both urgent care and my primary care physician. Currently, I'm on my third course of antibiotics after two prior rounds of steroids. It seems the medical team is aiming to address a possible infection, but the antibiotics don’t seem to be effective for me. My symptoms indicate congestion, as both my ears and sinuses feel blocked, accompanied by a nagging cough. In an effort to alleviate this congestion, I’ve been using Claritin D and Flonase, but I haven’t seen much improvement. While I’m not particularly concerned about regaining my taste and smell, I'm very motivated to alleviate the congestion and the discomfort in my ears, which occasionally becomes painful. Interestingly, I hardly ever get ill and don’t typically suffer from seasonal allergies. The last time I remember being unwell was in 2017 when I had the flu. I would appreciate any guidance or tips that could help!
Answers (1)
7/17/2025, 10:50:51 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're experiencing lingering effects from your COVID infection, particularly significant ear and sinus congestion, along with fatigue. These symptoms can be frustrating, especially after multiple treatments. Here’s a structured approach to help you manage your symptoms effectively.
Main Points:
- Lingering symptoms after COVID can include sinus congestion and ear pressure.
- Current treatments may not be providing the relief you need.
- Focused self-care strategies may help alleviate your discomfort.
Explanation:
Lingering symptoms, often referred to as "long COVID" symptoms, can include ear pressure, sinus congestion, fatigue, and altered senses like taste and smell. Pressure in the ears can be related to ear congestion which is often a consequence of sinusitis. Despite taking antibiotics, this doesn’t always resolve symptoms if they are due to viral lingering effects rather than a bacterial infection.
Next Steps:
-
Nasal Irrigation: Consider using a saline nasal rinse or a neti pot to help clear nasal passages and reduce sinus congestion. This can help loosen mucus and improve drainage.
-
Steam Inhalation: Inhaling steam from a bowl of hot water or a warm shower can help alleviate nasal congestion. You can also add a few drops of eucalyptus oil for additional relief.
-
Stay Hydrated: Encourage fluid intake to help thin mucus and improve overall hydration. Warm fluids like herbal teas or broths can be especially soothing.
-
Over-the-Counter Options: Since you’re already trying Claritin D and Flonase, consider discussing with your provider the use of an expectorant like guaifenesin, which can help loosen mucus.
-
Warm Compress: Applying a warm compress to your ears may help relieve pressure and discomfort.
-
Rest and Manage Fatigue: Ensure you get plenty of rest to help your body recover. Short, gentle walks can also help promote energy levels without overexertion.
If your symptoms worsen or do not improve with these measures over the next week, it may be beneficial to follow up with a healthcare provider who specializes in post-COVID assessments, as they can offer further insights tailored to your situation. Your comfort is important, so prioritize finding relief through these methods.
Please keep me posted on how you’re feeling!
Related Questions
Persistent Chest Disturbance
Hello everyone, About three weeks ago, I was struck down by what seems to be a viral infection, presenting symptoms like headache, fever, fatigue, and a cough. After ten days, I consulted my general practitioner due to a worsening chest condition; they prescribed antibiotics for what they diagnosed as a lower respiratory tract infection. I’m uncertain whether this was appropriate given that it originated from a virus. I have tested negative for COVID-19 twice. Currently, my chest feels quite unsettled, and my oximeter readings have been around 93 to 94. I haven't been able to expel any mucus despite staying hydrated and trying an over-the-counter remedy similar to Mucinex. I’m curious to know if this rattling sensation could be due to trapped mucus or if it might indicate something else entirely. Would it be advisable to revisit my GP, or is it something I should simply endure until it resolves? I usually rely on physical activity for managing my chronic pain and mental well-being, but im having a hard time coping with the limitations posed by my lung condition.
Seeking Answers During Difficult Times
Hello everyone, My stepfather, who was 80 years old, was taken to the hospital for a series of health assessments. He had multiple health issues, including heart failure, cachexia, which is a significant loss of weight and muscle, and sleep apnea. At home, he relied on a BiPAP machine during the night for his breathing. Unfortunately, my mother forgot to bring along his BiPAP mask when he was admitted. Shortly thereafter, his health began to decline rapidly. He fell into a coma and passed away around two weeks later. I can't help but feel that forgetting the mask played a role in this. What I'm struggling to comprehend is how these events unfolded from a medical standpoint. For a bit of background: Last summer, he had been on a ventilator and managed to recover from that crisis. However, after that instance, his health declined, leaving him weaker, with ongoing heart failure and cachexia. His breathing was quite labored during this time. Despite his sleep apnea being managed with BiPAP at home, once he was hospitalized and didn’t have the device (at least initially), his condition worsened quickly. I am in search of clarity during this challenging time.
Lower Right Abdominal Discomfort
Early this morning, I experienced a sudden ache in my lower abdomen which first appeared around 3 AM. Although I felt some discomfort while trying to sleep, I dismissed it as I was in a deep slumber. However, upon waking at 6 AM to use the restroom, the pain had intensified significantly. I decided to consult a physician around 10 AM. After examining me, they administered a 40 MG Esomeprazole injection via a canola and advised me to wait a few moments to assess whether it would alleviate my discomfort. Fortunately, it did help, and I was sent home with a prescription for additional medication. As the clock approached 2 PM, I began to notice a resurgence of the pain, albeit with a modified sensation. This time, the discomfort primarily manifested when I moved or walked, and I particularly felt a sharp pain in my lower right abdomen while coughing or during trips to the restroom. Now, at 8:50 PM, the pain persists and remains quite intense, with occasional episodes of sharp, sudden discomfort. I am a 14-year-old male, standing approximately 6 feet 3 inches tall and weighing around 100 kilograms. Although I am not experiencing nausea or fever, I do feel some chills. Any insights or possible explanations for my situation would be greatly appreciated.
Anxiety About Starting Cyclosporine for My Psoriasis – Seeking Genuine Feedback
Hello everyone, I’m a **25-year-old man** working in the tech field, and I’ve been struggling with **moderate to severe psoriasis** for quite some time now. This persistent condition affects my **scalp, face, the area behind my ears, as well as my arms, legs, and back**, essentially all over my body. Lately, my dermatologist has recommended that I start taking **Cyclosporine (Psorid 50 mg) twice daily**. While I understand that it’s a potent medication that has benefited many, I can’t help but feel a deep sense of **fear** about using it. Several years ago, around **7 or 8 years back**, I underwent treatment with **methotrexate** which did show some effectiveness in managing my psoriasis. Unfortunately, once I ceased taking it, my condition not only returned but worsened significantly. This negative experience led me to abandon all medical interventions and instead find ways to cope with my psoriasis on my own. Now, at the age of **25**, my psoriasis has flared up yet again for reasons that are unclear to me, and it seems to be spreading. The trauma from my previous treatment has left me deep in **overthinking**, **doubts about possible treatments**, and second-guessing every medical decision, resulting in considerable **mental fatigue**. Here are some of my concerns: * I’m uncertain about the **duration** required for taking cyclosporine. * I worry about potential **kidney and liver damage**. * I’ve had recent blood tests, and some of my results were borderline, which has only increased my anxiety. * Additionally, I’m dealing with a **vitamin D deficiency**. * The **financial strain** is significant, as the costs of frequent blood tests and the medication itself can be overwhelming. * I’m afraid that in my quest to appear "normal," I may be harming my body in the process. On a psychological level, psoriasis has taken a considerable toll on me. I often feel **self-conscious when going out**, tend to avoid social interactions, and it is gradually making me more **reclusive**. There are days when I just cannot muster the energy to face others. I’m in such a conflicting place that part of me wonders: I can't determine if this is the **correct decision** or if fear is clouding my judgment. I have faith in my doctor, yet my previous encounters make it challenging to fully trust the path forward. For those who have taken **cyclosporine for psoriasis**: * How long did you remain on it? * Did you experience any kidney or liver complications? * Was your doctor careful in tapering the dosage? * Was the outcome worth it for you? I’m not seeking medical guidance, just **genuine stories and reassurance**. I feel trapped, anxious, and mentally drained. Thank you for taking the time to read my post. 🙏
Could This Incident Relate to Medical Malpractice?
I’m reflecting on an experience from a decade ago that might be linked to some ongoing health issues I now face. Back in 2016, I made a serious mistake by attempting to overdose on ibuprofen. I had prescription pills that were 800 mg each, and I estimate I consumed about twenty, though the specifics are hazy due to the time elapsed. Approximately eight hours post-ingestion, I found myself in an emergency department. I recall undergoing an electrocardiogram (EKG) and receiving IV fluids. At one point, the medical staff requested a urine sample. I tried to comply, but the urge to urinate eluded me. When I expressed my struggle, the nurse indicated that a catheter might be necessary if I continued to be unable to provide a sample; I agreed, unaware they might suspect I was hiding narcotics use. In reality, I was genuinely unable to urinate. I spent roughly twelve hours in the ER, enduring significant bladder pressure without being able to relieve myself. Subsequently, I was transferred to a psychiatric facility where they also requested urine, but again, I couldn’t manage it. Despite my repeated pleas about the intense discomfort I was experiencing, no assistance was offered. For at least two entire days, I didn’t urinate, enduring severe pain that felt invisible to the medical staff. Eventually, when I finally did manage to go, the urine was a dark hue, and bladder pain lingered for several days afterward. After my release, I was directed to a psychiatrist, but no follow-up was arranged for the physical complaints I had endured. I'm left wondering if the absence of alarming findings during my ER visit contributed to that lack of further investigation. Since that incident, I’ve frequently felt a pressure in my bladder and the urgency to urinate. For a while, this was manageable, but it has escalated in recent times. Additionally, I have had several urinary tract infections (UTIs) over the years. While I seek treatment whenever these infections occur, I haven't undergone any thorough assessments related to my bladder problems. Ultimately, I'm left questioning whether the two-day period of not being able to urinate could be tied to the symptoms I currently experience, and if the medical team could have handled the situation differently.