OpenHealth Q&A

Persistent Illness Over the Past Year

A 24-year-old female, standing at 5 feet 5 inches and weighing approximately 160 pounds, identifies as Caucasian and resides in Canada. She consumes alcohol socially but does not smoke, vape, or use recreational drugs. **Primary Concern: Ongoing illness since October 2024. My friends and family remain healthy, prompting me to question the root cause of my recurring health issues.** **Symptoms:** Experiencing a productive cough with phlegm that is vividly colored (yellow/green), nasal congestion, mild sinus headaches, general fatigue accompanied by muscle soreness, episodes of feeling faint, and a scratchy throat resulting in discomfort when swallowing (around a 2 on a pain scale). Hearing and ear problems are absent. **Medications and Health Background:** I take daily supplements including vitamins C and D, along with Nexplanon and low-dose aspirin. For asthma management, I use a beclometasone inhaler at 200 micrograms, twice each day, along with a salbutamol sulfate inhaler (100 micrograms as needed). In November 2021, I had a history of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and a paratubal cyst. My vaccination schedule is current, with a mild penicillin allergy noted from childhood. **Health Issues Before 2024:** I previously experienced sporadic bouts of illness including tonsillitis and COVID-19, alongside some episodes that were never diagnosed, typically occurring in late autumn and winter. **Health Issues Since Fall 2024:** I have fallen ill every one to two months, each episode lasting about 1.5 to 2 weeks, with varying symptom intensity. 1. October 30 - November 5 2. November 15 - December 31 (on and off with no testing but was prescribed doxycycline, which proved ineffective) 3. February 1-15 (received another doxycycline prescription without success) 4. April 1-12 5. April 25-30 (submitted a sputum sample to my general practitioner who identified strep G and prescribed clarithromycin due to doxycycline resistance) *There was a reprieve in May and June, coinciding with my move from the UK back to Canada.* 1. July 7-12 2. August 11 - Present **Today, August 14:** I consulted with my GP following a telehealth session yesterday. While the examination returned normal findings, I was referred for a chest X-ray to exclude pneumonia, which came back clear. My GP suggested a saline rinse as a part of my treatment. I have hesitated to share my experience, as it may not seem grave, and I don't wish to detract from those with more pressing needs. However, I am feeling quite frustrated and downcast. This ongoing illness is impacting my work—something I cannot afford to neglect—and affecting my social interactions. I realize that sometimes conditions resolve on their own without intervention, yet I can’t shake the anxiety over the lack of follow-up or additional testing. I find it difficult to accept that I could be suffering for such an extended period due to something benign like a common cold rather than a more significant health issue. If further details are needed, please feel free to ask. I appreciate your time and any guidance you can provide <3

Answers (1)

8/14/2025, 10:11:09 PM

OpenHealth AI

I'm sorry to hear about your ongoing health issues. It sounds like you're going through a challenging time, and it's understandable to feel frustrated and anxious about the lack of clear answers. You have been persistent in seeking help, and that is commendable.

Main Points:

Your symptoms, coupled with a history of recurrent illnesses, raise potential concerns that may be linked to your respiratory health and perhaps a chronic underlying condition. It's crucial to focus on managing your symptoms while seeking clearer answers.

Explanation:

You have described a pattern of symptoms that includes productive cough, nasal congestion, fatigue, and discomfort when swallowing. The change in your health following your move and the antibiotic prescriptions suggest that an infection or inflammation could be involved, but the repeated cycles and persistence of symptoms may indicate something beyond simple acute infections.

Your past medical history, especially with DVT and intermittent respiratory issues, can make your case more complex. The referral for a chest X-ray and your GP's suggestion of a saline rinse are good first steps in addressing potential respiratory issues.

Next Steps:

1. Continue Saline Rinses: Saline nasal rinses can help clear mucus and alleviate nasal congestion. This could improve your symptoms and is a safe way to provide some relief.

2. Hydration & Steam: Ensure you’re drinking plenty of fluids to help thin mucus, and consider using a humidifier or steam inhalation to ease respiratory symptoms.

3. Monitor and Document Symptoms: Keep a detailed diary of your symptoms, noting any changes, triggers, and responses to treatments. This can be valuable information to share with your healthcare provider.

4. Follow Up on Testing: Since you are seemingly not improving, advocate for a follow-up with your GP regarding further testing. This may include allergy testing or a referral to a pulmonologist for further evaluation of your respiratory symptoms.

5. Psychological Well-Being: Given the emotional toll this situation has caused, consider speaking with a mental health professional if your anxiety or frustration becomes overwhelming.

6. Stay Informed and Engaged: Don’t hesitate to ask your healthcare provider about potential conditions that fit your symptom profile, like chronic bronchitis, asthma exacerbations, or even conditions such as post-viral syndrome.

Your health is important, and taking these proactive steps could assist in finding a resolution to your ongoing issues. If you need further details or clarification on any of these steps, feel free to reach out again. Take care!