It is very common to experience this sensation, and it could be a combination of both factors. Recovering from COVID-19 two weeks ago can leave behind lingering inflammation in your deeper sinus passages, creating a persistent feeling of mucus. Additionally, frequent use of a Vicks inhaler can irritate your nasal passages or cause a rebound effect, altering how you perceive airflow. To help your nasal lining heal, try pausing the inhaler and using a gentle saline nasal spray to keep the area hydrated. This sensation is typically temporary and should improve soon. Please consult a doctor if it persists.

For safe relief at eight months, try steam inhalation with plain water to soothe your dry nose, and drink warm water mixed with honey and a little ginger to ease your throat. Saline nasal drops are also highly safe and effective for dryness. Since you are in your third trimester, please consult your obstetrician before taking any commercial Ayurvedic formulations or continuing cetirizine (citrazen). Always prioritize your and your baby's safety by avoiding self-medication with complex herbal remedies right now.

For a 2-month-old baby, please do not apply thailam or Baby Vicks VapoRub on or near their nose. Strong balms can irritate their delicate airways and make breathing more difficult. Fortunately, using saline nasal drops (like Nasoclear) is very safe and highly effective at loosening mucus. You can also use a cool-mist humidifier in their room to help them breathe easier. Please avoid any chest rubs or balms at this age, and consult your pediatrician if your baby has a fever, rapid breathing, or difficulty feeding.

It is generally safe to use your Vicks nasal inhaler (which typically contains camphor and menthol) on the same day as your surgery. However, please be very gentle. Strong sniffing or inhaling forcefully can create suction in your mouth, which might dislodge the healing blood clot and lead to a painful dry socket. If you use it, breathe in very softly. Alternatively, using a warm mist humidifier or plain saline nasal spray can safely ease your congestion without any risk to your healing gums.

Since Vicks hasn't brought relief, your headaches might be linked to sinus congestion that worsens when you lie down at night. To help, try elevating your head with an extra pillow and using steam inhalation before bed to ease congestion. For pain relief, simple over-the-counter paracetamol or ibuprofen can help manage the headache. Staying well-hydrated is also key. If your headache worsens, is accompanied by a stiff neck, fever, or if the cough intensifies, please consult a healthcare professional for a proper evaluation.

Please be reassured that a white blood cell count of 11,200 cells/mcL is only slightly elevated. This mild increase, combined with persistent sneezing, is most commonly caused by a standard viral infection (like a cold) or allergic rhinitis, as your body fights off a virus or reacts to environmental triggers. To help calm your sneezing immediately, I recommend using a sterile saline nasal spray to flush out irritants and staying well-hydrated. An over-the-counter generic antihistamine like cetirizine can also provide quick relief. Please rest, and consider consulting a healthcare professional if your symptoms persist or worsen.