Yes, overusing nasal decongestant drops can sometimes cause rebound congestion and headaches. However, a severe headache paired with swelling on one side of your head is not a typical side effect and could indicate a localized sinus infection or inflammation. Since steam and menthol rubs haven't provided relief, it is very important that you stop using the drops and consult a healthcare professional promptly for an accurate diagnosis. Please avoid using over-the-counter nasal decongestants for more than three to five consecutive days.

Yes, it is safe to use Vicks BabyRub on your sweet 9-month-old baby's chest and back. Unlike the adult strength, the baby formulation is specially made without camphor or menthol, which can be harsh for little ones, and instead uses soothing ingredients like aloe and rosemary. Gently massaging it on his chest and back can be very comforting and help him rest. Please be careful to avoid his face, nose, mouth, and hands to prevent any accidental irritation. If his cough worsens, or if he develops a fever or breathing difficulties, please have his pediatrician take a look just to be safe.

For a one-year-old, the safest way to clear a runny nose is using saline nasal drops and gently suctioning with a bulb syringe. A cool-mist humidifier in his room is much safer than hot steam, which carries a burn risk. Please do not use Vicks VapoRub on him, as it is unsafe for children under two. For his headache or discomfort, you can consult his pediatrician for the correct dose of infant acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Keep him hydrated and cozy, and always reach out to his doctor if his symptoms worsen.

Your symptoms?one-sided nasal and ear blockage with forehead tenderness?strongly suggest a sinus infection or Eustachian tube dysfunction. Since topical drops, Vicks, and steam haven't worked, the inflammation likely needs targeted medical treatment. I highly recommend consulting a doctor or an ENT specialist. They can safely examine your sinuses and ears to see if oral medications, such as systemic decongestants or antibiotics, are necessary. In the meantime, try applying a warm compress to your forehead and stay well-hydrated to help ease the pressure.

Please note that Taxim (cefixime) is an antibiotic for bacterial infections and does not treat the COVID-19 virus directly, but it is excellent that you are feeling better. Generally, you can safely end home isolation once you have been fever-free for at least 24 hours without using fever-reducing medications, and your other symptoms have significantly improved, typically at least 5 to 10 days after your symptoms first started. Continue resting and staying hydrated as you fully recover.

But please be reassured that losing your sense of taste and smell after a cold is very common and usually temporary, not permanent or serious. It typically improves gradually over a few weeks. Since you used Vicks VapoRub, just ensure it is applied only to your chest or throat, and never inside your nostrils. To help your recovery, you can try 'olfactory training' at home. Gently sniff strong, familiar scents like lemon, eucalyptus, cloves, or rose for about 20 seconds each, twice a day. This helps stimulate your nasal nerves. Stay well-hydrated, and give your body some time to heal.