Is My Sore Throat a Cold or Something More Serious?

Is it a cold issue?

Hello, doctor.
About ten days ago, I had a cold and took medication twice.
Later, the doctor said that since I no longer had a sore throat, I didn't need to return for a follow-up.
However, today I felt something like a droplet shape stuck in my throat near my nose when I opened my mouth to breathe through my nose.
Although I drank water afterward and now feel fine, I'm wondering if this is because my cold hasn't fully resolved or if it was caused by me thinking I swallowed a small bone during dinner, which made me feel slightly nauseous.

Additionally, I would like to ask about something else.
It seems that when I use my phone or computer for an extended period—especially since I need to use the computer for design assignments and attend online classes late at night—I sometimes feel a slight dizziness and heaviness in my head.
My family says it's because I stay up too late and stare at the screen, which they claim can harm my kidney energy.
Sometimes, when I suddenly get up from lying down, I also feel this way.
When I had my cold, I asked an ENT doctor about it, and he mentioned that it could be due to the weather or posture, and that many people experience this.
He advised me not to worry unless I felt persistent dizziness or severe pain, in which case I should seek further evaluation.
He also mentioned that getting enough sleep would help resolve the issue.
Just now, while watching a drama with my mom, I saw something about meningitis, and I became a bit worried that my immune system might be weak and that a cold could have invaded my brain.
I'm unsure if my symptoms resemble that, and I'm feeling a bit anxious.
Should I be concerned, or as the ENT doctor said, is it just a matter of resting more? Thank you, doctor.

Xiao Xiao, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/01/30

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine

Hello,
1.
Regarding the previous cold symptoms, such as post-nasal drip, if they persist for a longer duration, it is usually recommended to rest more and stay hydrated, which should help in recovery.

2.
As for the dizziness, it could be caused by multiple factors, including the previous cold leading to a weakened state, lack of sleep, high stress, and insufficient exercise.
All of these can have an impact.
However, if the dizziness persists, it may be necessary to conduct blood tests to check for anemia.
The sensation of the ceiling spinning typically indicates an imbalance in the inner ear, with Meniere's disease being the most common cause, but based on your description, it doesn't seem to fit.

3.
Concerning your concerns about meningitis, it usually presents with symptoms such as fever and altered consciousness.
Based on your description, it doesn't seem to be the case.

Thank you for your inquiry.

Reply Date: 2021/01/30

More Info

When it comes to distinguishing between a common cold and something more serious, such as a throat infection or other medical condition, it's essential to consider the symptoms and their duration. Based on your description, it seems you recently experienced a cold, which can often lead to lingering symptoms even after the initial illness has resolved.
A sore throat can be a common symptom of a cold, but if you are experiencing a sensation of something stuck in your throat, especially near the nasal area, it could indicate post-nasal drip. This occurs when mucus from the sinuses drips down the back of the throat, which can happen after a cold. Drinking water, as you did, can help alleviate this sensation by keeping the throat moist and helping to clear any mucus.

Regarding your concern about possibly having ingested a small bone, if you felt discomfort after eating and it has since resolved, it is likely that you either swallowed it without issue or that it was a temporary irritation. If you experience persistent pain, difficulty swallowing, or any other concerning symptoms, it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation.

As for the feelings of dizziness and heaviness in your head, these symptoms can be attributed to several factors, including prolonged screen time, lack of sleep, or even anxiety. Spending long hours on a computer can lead to digital eye strain, which may cause headaches, dizziness, and a feeling of heaviness. It’s important to take regular breaks, practice the 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds), and ensure you are maintaining good posture while working.

Your family’s comment about "kidney qi" relates to traditional Chinese medicine, which emphasizes the balance of energy in the body. While this perspective is culturally significant, from a Western medical standpoint, your symptoms are more likely related to fatigue and eye strain rather than a deficiency in "kidney qi."
Regarding your concerns about meningitis, it’s understandable to feel anxious, especially after reading about it. Meningitis typically presents with more severe symptoms, such as a high fever, severe headache, stiff neck, and sensitivity to light. If you are not experiencing these symptoms, it is less likely that you are suffering from meningitis. However, if you do develop these symptoms or if your dizziness worsens or persists, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly.

In summary, your sore throat is likely a residual effect of your recent cold, and the sensation of something stuck in your throat may be due to post-nasal drip. The dizziness and heaviness in your head could be related to screen time and fatigue. It is always best to listen to your body; if symptoms persist or worsen, do not hesitate to consult a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation. Prioritizing rest, hydration, and taking breaks from screens can significantly improve your overall well-being.

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