For persistent shortness of breath and a fast heart rate, standard initial tests include an electrocardiogram (ECG), basic blood work (to check for anemia or thyroid issues), and spirometry to evaluate your lung function. Since your symptoms were previously dismissed, please consider seeking a second opinion, perhaps from a cardiologist or pulmonologist. To prepare, keep a detailed diary of your symptoms, noting exactly when they occur and how they feel. Your physical health is important, and finding a supportive doctor who will listen to you is a vital next step.

While Vicks can offer temporary comfort, it only masks the smell rather than treating the underlying cause. Please don't worry, as these conditions are very common and highly treatable. I gently recommend seeing a primary care doctor or an ENT specialist to examine your sinuses, and checking in with your dentist. Staying well-hydrated and using a simple saline nasal rinse might also help soothe your nasal passages in the meantime.

Since over-the-counter syrups and home treatments are not helping, it is time to consult your doctor. They can prescribe stronger, targeted options. For the severe sore throat, generic ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help ease the pain and inflammation. For the relentless nighttime cough, a physician may prescribe a prescription-strength cough suppressant like benzonatate or a generic prescription liquid to help quiet your cough reflex so you can finally rest. Please reach out to a healthcare provider for a personalized prescription to help you recover safely.

Menthol can sometimes irritate the skin, making it highly sensitive to the sun and leading to dark spots. First, please stop using the mentholated rub. To help your skin heal and prevent further burning, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen containing zinc oxide daily. For the dark spots, gentle topical ingredients like azelaic acid or vitamin C can help fade them safely over time. Keeping your skin hydrated with a simple, fragrance-free moisturizer will also support your skin barrier. I highly recommend consulting a dermatologist for a personalized treatment plan.

The burning sensation and reduced sense of smell are likely due to the viral infection itself causing inflammation in your nasal passages, rather than the Vicks Action 500, though oral decongestants like phenylephrine can sometimes cause mild dryness. To help soothe your nose, try using a simple saline nasal spray and steam inhalation to restore moisture. This should gradually improve as your body recovers from the cold. However, if these symptoms persist past a week or worsen, please consult a healthcare professional for a gentle evaluation.

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.