Patient
Hi, I'm hoping you can provide some guidance on a health issue I've been having.
Triage Assistant
Where does it hurt?
Patient
It's not exactly pain, but more of an ongoing discomfort.
Triage Assistant
Can you specify the location of this discomfort?
Patient
Sure, it's in my nasal area.
Triage Assistant
When did your nasal discharge start?
Patient
It's been about 10 days now.
Triage Assistant
How much nasal discharge are you experiencing?
Patient
It's quite frequent, and there's a significant amount.
Triage Assistant
Do you have a cough? If yes, describe the color of your sputum (clear, white, yellow, green).
Patient
No, I don't have a cough.
Triage Assistant
Describe your breathing.
Patient
My breathing feels a bit obstructed, probably because of the nasal congestion. But I'm not experiencing any shortness of breath.
Triage Assistant
Do you have a fever? If yes, what is your temperature, how was it measured, and when did it start?
Patient
No, I don't have a fever.
Triage Assistant
Overall, how bad are you feeling right now? For example, does it interfere with your normal activities, are you staying home from work, or are you staying in bed?
Patient
It's quite bothersome, and it's affecting my daily activities, but I haven't had to stay home from work or stay in bed all day. It's just making things quite uncomfortable and tiring.
Triage Assistant
Do you have any other symptoms, such as a sore throat, earache, wheezing, or vomiting?
Patient
No, I don't have any other symptoms like a sore throat, earache, wheezing, or vomiting. It's mainly just the sinus congestion.
Triage Assistant
It seems like you have sinus congestion that has been persistent for over 10 days, which may indicate a bacterial sinus infection. ### Disposition: You should see a healthcare provider today or tomorrow to evaluate your symptoms further. ### First Aid Advice: 1. **Nasal Washes**: Try saline (salt water) nasal irrigation to relieve your congestion. - You can use a saline nasal spray or make a nasal wash at home with distilled or boiled water. - Instructions: - Mix 3/4 teaspoon of non-iodized salt and 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda in 1 cup of water. - Lean over a sink and gently squirt or spray the saline solution into one nostril, let it drain out, and then repeat on the other side. 2. **Hydration**: Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. 3. **Humidifier**: Use a humidifier in your room to add moisture to the air, which can help relieve congestion. 4. **Over-the-Counter Medication**: If needed, you can use a nasal decongestant for short-term relief. Thank you for calling, goodbye.
Call EMS 911 Now
See More Appropriate Protocol
Go to ED/UCC Now (or to Office With PCP Approval)
Go to Office Now
See in Office Today
See in Office Today or Tomorrow
Strep Test Only Visit Today or Tomorrow
Home Care
Triage result was accurate.
First aid advice was given.
All assesssment questions asked.