Persistent Nasal Discomfort: Is It a Cold or Something Else?

There is a persistent sensation of irritation in the nose?

Hello! For the past couple of days, I've been sensing a smell similar to that of SARS, and I have a feeling reminiscent of being choked by water while swimming.
My nose feels slightly congested, but it doesn't last long.
Since I haven't experienced choking recently, this sudden sensation feels quite strange, and I'm unsure if I need to see a doctor.
Could this be a cold, or will it resolve on its own after a while? Thank you!

Dan Dan, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/07/04

Dr. Ji Zhaoyun reply Otolaryngology

Based on your description, you have recently experienced a sensation of a strange odor in your nose, similar to the taste of soda, along with a feeling akin to choking on water, and mild nasal congestion.
These symptoms may be related to various factors, including a cold, allergies, or other respiratory issues.
Here are some recommendations, but please note that online consultations are for reference only; it is best to seek in-person medical evaluation for an accurate diagnosis and treatment advice:
1.
Monitor Symptoms: If your symptoms are limited to mild nasal congestion and an unusual odor, and you do not have any other severe symptoms, you may observe them for a few days to see if they resolve on their own.
2.
Maintain Good Hygiene: Ensure you practice good personal hygiene, including frequent handwashing, avoiding contact with potential pathogens, and steering clear of close contact with individuals exhibiting cold symptoms.
3.
Keep Indoor Air Fresh: Ensure proper ventilation in your living space to avoid environments with harmful gases or unpleasant odors.
4.
Avoid Allergens: If you have a history of allergies, try to avoid exposure to substances that may trigger allergic reactions, such as pollen or dust mites.
5.
Stay Healthy: Ensure adequate rest, a balanced diet, and moderate exercise to help strengthen your immune system.
If your symptoms persist or worsen, or if you develop other severe symptoms (such as fever, cough, or difficulty breathing), it is advisable to seek medical attention for further evaluation and guidance.
Wishing you a speedy recovery!

Reply Date: 2024/07/04

More Info

Hello! It sounds like you're experiencing some concerning nasal symptoms, and it's understandable to want clarity on what might be happening. Based on your description, it seems you are encountering a combination of olfactory disturbances (like smelling a strange odor) and nasal discomfort (similar to the sensation of being choked by water).
Firstly, the sensation of smelling something unusual, such as a "SARS-like" odor, could be related to a condition known as dysosmia, which is a distortion of the sense of smell. This can occur due to various reasons, including viral infections, allergies, or even nasal polyps. Given that you mentioned a recent experience of nasal congestion, it is possible that you are dealing with a mild upper respiratory infection, which could be a cold or a sinus infection.
Colds are typically caused by viral infections and can lead to symptoms such as nasal congestion, runny nose, and sometimes a change in smell. The nasal passages can become inflamed and produce excess mucus, which may contribute to the sensation of nasal discomfort. If you have been exposed to cold air or have been swimming, this could also exacerbate your symptoms, as cold air can irritate the nasal passages and lead to increased mucus production.

The feeling of being choked or having water in your nose can also be indicative of post-nasal drip, where mucus accumulates in the back of the throat, leading to discomfort. This can happen during a cold or due to allergies, especially if you have a history of allergic rhinitis.
In terms of whether you need to see a doctor, it depends on the severity and persistence of your symptoms. If your nasal discomfort continues or worsens, or if you develop additional symptoms such as fever, severe headache, or facial pain, it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional. They can perform a thorough examination and possibly recommend treatments such as nasal corticosteroids or antihistamines if allergies are suspected.

It's also worth noting that if you have a history of allergies or sinus issues, these could be contributing factors to your current symptoms. Allergic rhinitis can lead to chronic nasal congestion and changes in smell, and it may require specific management strategies to alleviate your symptoms.

In summary, while your symptoms could be indicative of a common cold or mild upper respiratory infection, they could also be related to allergies or other nasal conditions. Monitoring your symptoms and seeking medical advice if they persist or worsen is the best course of action. Remember to stay hydrated, rest, and consider using saline nasal sprays to help alleviate nasal discomfort. Take care!

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