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.

I generally advise caution with chest balms like Vicks. Strong scents from ingredients like camphor, menthol, and eucalyptus can sometimes irritate sensitive airways and trigger asthma symptoms or coughing. While they do not directly interact with your inhalers, they might make your breathing more difficult. Instead, to help soothe your congestion safely, I recommend using a warm-mist humidifier or a simple saline nasal spray. These are gentle, drug-free options that will not irritate your lungs. Always keep your rescue inhaler close by, and please consult your doctor if your symptoms worsen.

This sounds like Eustachian tube dysfunction, where the passage connecting your nose and ears swells, likely triggered by your dust allergy. While Vicks provides temporary relief by opening nasal passages, it does not resolve the underlying congestion. To help, try using a generic saline nasal spray regularly, applying warm compresses, or practicing gentle swallowing exercises. I recommend discussing generic nasal steroid sprays with your doctor, or checking for jaw-joint issues, since the sound is linked to chewing.

There is no direct link between daily steam inhalation with Vicks and contracting black fungus (mucormycosis). Black fungus primarily affects individuals with severely weakened immune systems, such as those with uncontrolled diabetes or on high-dose steroids. While you are not at risk, inhaling steam with Vicks daily is generally not recommended as the camphor and menthol can irritate your airway lining over time. I suggest switching to plain, clean water steam and using it only when you are actually congested. Please ensure your inhaler is cleaned regularly to prevent any bacterial buildup.

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.

Since applying Vicks hasn't brought relief, this discomfort?often called pleuritic pain?could be related to inflammation of the chest wall muscles (costochondritis) or the membrane surrounding your lungs. While these conditions are highly treatable, chest pain always warrants a professional medical evaluation to ensure your safety. I warmly recommend visiting a healthcare provider soon for a proper examination. Please seek emergency care immediately if you develop shortness of breath, dizziness, or if the pain radiates to your arm or jaw.