Yes, it is generally safe for you to use a Vicks inhaler to relieve your blocked nose. The active ingredients, such as menthol and camphor, provide a soothing, cooling sensation that can temporarily ease congestion. However, please use it sparingly and for no more than a few consecutive days, as overuse can sometimes make congestion worse. If your nasal blockage persists or worsens, it is best to consult a healthcare professional.

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.

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.

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.

Yes, Vicks BabyRub is specially formulated for babies three months and older and is safe to gently massage on his chest and back to help soothe him. For his cough and cold, please avoid over-the-counter cough and cold medicines, as they are not safe for infants. Instead, you can use saline nasal drops and a bulb syringe to gently clear his congested nose, and run a cool-mist humidifier in his room. Ensure he stays well-hydrated with breastmilk or formula. If he develops a fever or has any trouble breathing, please contact his pediatrician.

Since this has lasted a while, it could be due to allergies or sinus inflammation. I suggest trying a generic saline nasal spray to gently clear your passages. A generic steroid nasal spray, like fluticasone, can also help reduce swelling over time. Please avoid using generic decongestant sprays for more than a few days to prevent worsening congestion. Since it has been three weeks, it is best to consult a doctor to find the exact cause and get the right treatment.