Help! What the devil is this?

[stargirl1701]

I have had a sniffly nose and a headache since Monday. I assumed it was a minor cold and took some paracetamol. Yesterday the bridge of my nose was very tender. I woke this morning at 4am and it was agony. I took some ibruprofen and paracetamol but then felt sick. I assumed it was taking the tablets on an empty stomach so I had some food and fell asleep. I got up at 7.30am and had my breakfast - Shredded Wheat with milk and OJ. 20 min later I vomited for 10 min. I then felt hungry at 11am so had some food. I ate lunch and dinner normally. The bridge of my nose is now agony - like someone has punched me in the face - and I feel sick again. I'm scared to take some painkillers in case I vomit.

What is going on?!

[LadyMaryChristmas]

Sinus infection? Get yourself off to your GP, they are better at diagnosing then mumsnet.

[Brightonite]

Sinusitis?

[RibenaFiend]

Sounds like sinusitis to me too but I lack a medical degree so go see your GP

[stargirl1701]

Grrr! I was there on Monday on an unrelated matter. I've got an appointment for my 10 week old baby tomorrow at 9. Can I mention it or should I try to book another appt? I felt fine most of the day!

[Valdeeves]

You can mention it

[stargirl1701]

It is sinusitis. I've to take paracetamol and ibruprofen - go back if it hasn't cleared in 14 days.

[stargirl1701]

Any suggestions to help clear my sinuses?

[MelanieWiggles]

These work really well. You can get them in most pharmacies.

[ScienceRocks]

Buy a decongestant spray containing xylometazoline or oxymetazoline. They are local decongestants that shrink the linings of the sinuses, increasing the sizes of the tubes so stuff can drain more easily. Should be available in a supermarket (brand names include vicks sinex and otrivine) but do look for the ingredients I've listed or ask at a pharmacy.

These can't be used for longer than five to seven days, and are fine with painkillers. Much more effective than decongestant tablets.

[stargirl1701]

Thank you Wiggles and Science. I'm heading to a pharmacy shortly.

[Squirrelface]

I had the same symptoms recently. I had been suffering with a bad throat/chest, and then out of the blue woke up feeling as if I'd been punched in the nose - it was very tender to the touch and ached badly. Then the bridge of my nose went red and began to swell up. The doctor diagnosed it as Nasal Cellulitis and prescribed antibiotics. If you have this, you really do need to get some antibiotics, as it can spread and cause more problems.

[stargirl1701]

I saw the GP yesterday. She def thinks it's sinusitis. I'll keep a close eye on it though. Thank you.