Seeking Relief: Ongoing Ear and Facial Discomfort After Two Weeks of Respiratory Illness
I am currently experiencing day 14 of a lingering respiratory illness, the origins of which remain unclear. It initially presented with relentless sneezing and a persistent runny nose, accompanied by a low-grade fever ranging from 99 to 100 degrees. Additionally, I have suffered from facial and sinus pain, conjunctivitis, intense headaches, fatigue, and general body aches. After visiting urgent care, I underwent tests for COVID-19, influenza types A and B, and RSV, all returning negative results. The doctor provided me with azelastine; however, he indicated that no further interventions were necessary at that time. While the sneezing and excessive nasal discharge subsided within a few days, I continue to endure headaches, congestion, generalized aches, and overwhelming fatigue at this two-week mark. Moreover, I've recently started experiencing pain in my left ear, with persistent sinus discomfort on that same side. Occasionally, I find myself running a fever of around 99 degrees. Unfortunately, I am unable to make an appointment with my primary care physician for another couple of weeks. I am contemplating whether another visit to urgent care would be worthwhile. Is there any potential relief available for my ear pain? Due to my allergy to aspirin and NSAIDs, I can only use Tylenol, which hasn't alleviated the discomfort. I suspect that I may simply need to ride out this troublesome illness, but could the symptoms indicate a bacterial infection that warrants an antibiotic treatment? Additional Information: - Age: 60 - Gender: Female - Height: 5'2" - Weight: 120 lbs - Ethnicity: White/Asian - Duration of symptoms: 14 days - Pain location: Left ear and left side of the face - Relevant medical history: MCAS, POTS, hEDS, one adrenal gland - Current medications: loratadine, famotidine, fluticasone, prescription potassium, metoprolol, montelukast, azelastine
Answers (1)
2/6/2026, 3:30:49 PM
OpenHealth AI
I understand you're feeling quite uncomfortable after two weeks of lingering respiratory issues, along with facial pain, ear discomfort, and fatigue. It's perfectly normal to want relief, especially with your ongoing symptoms. Let's break down the situation and focus on actionable next steps.
Main Points:
- Ongoing Symptoms: Your lingering symptoms, including ear pain, sinus discomfort, and fatigue, suggest possible complications from your initial respiratory illness.
- Pain Management: Since you are unable to take NSAIDs and have experienced limited relief with Tylenol, we need to explore other safe methods for managing pain and discomfort.
- Watch for Symptoms: While your situation may be a viral illness, monitor for signs of a bacterial infection.
Explanation:
It seems you had a respiratory illness that improved, but you've developed new symptoms like ear pain, which can often occur when congestion leads to pressure and sinus issues. This can be uncomfortable and may mimic symptoms of a sinus infection or even ear infection, though it doesn't always necessitate antibiotics, especially when there's no clear sign of a bacterial infection.
Actionable Next Steps:
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Nasal Irrigation: Consider using a saline nasal spray or a neti pot to help clear your sinuses and ease the pressure. This can help reduce congestion and, possibly, some of the ear pain you're feeling.
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Warm Compresses: Applying a warm compress to the affected ear and side of the face may provide some relief from pain and pressure. Just ensure it’s not too hot to avoid burns.
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Hydration and Rest: Continue to stay well-hydrated and rest as much as possible. This will support your body in healing.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on your fever and symptoms. If the ear pain worsens, you develop a high fever (over 101°F), or you experience hearing loss, a significant increase in facial swelling, or worsening headaches, it may require urgent care.
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Consider Over-the-counter Options: You might want to explore other pain relief options that are safe for you, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) with a focus on dosages that you haven't yet tried. Be sure to stick to the recommended dosages.
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Follow Up on Care: If your symptoms do not improve in the next few days or worsen in any way, seek urgent care. They can reassess and determine if further treatment or antibiotics are necessary.
Taking these steps can help you find relief and monitor your health effectively. You’re doing well in seeking clarity about your health, and I'm here to help if you have more questions or updates!
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