Upset stomach, runny nose and fatigue: what to know

A common cold, influenza, or COVID-19 can cause tiredness and nose symptoms; some people also develop nausea, reduced appetite, vomiting, or diarrhoea. Allergic rhinitis, house dust mite allergy, or pet allergy more often causes a clear runny nose, sneezing, and itchy eyes, although feeling unwell can follow poor sleep or prolonged symptoms. Sinusitis may bring facial pressure, blocked drainage, and thicker nasal mucus. The combination alone cannot identify the cause.

Consider timing and exposure: sudden symptoms after contact with someone ill fit infection more than an allergy pattern linked to a room, season, or animal. Fever, cough, sore throat, and changes in smell or taste are useful details to report.

Rest, drink fluids regularly, and choose light meals while your stomach settles. Saline nasal rinsing or spray may ease irritation; follow product directions and use safe water for any rinse. Wash hands, improve ventilation, and limit close contact while an infection is possible. A pharmacist can advise on symptom relief that is suitable with your medicines and health conditions. Track temperature, breathing, hydration, and whether symptoms are improving.

Get urgent help for difficulty breathing, chest pain, confusion, fainting, severe dehydration, severe abdominal pain, or repeated vomiting. Arrange a clinical review for worsening symptoms, persistent high fever, severe facial pain or swelling, or fatigue that does not begin to improve. People who are pregnant, older, immunocompromised, or living with significant long-term disease should seek advice earlier.

Ask whether the pattern is more consistent with a respiratory infection, allergy, or sinusitis; whether testing is useful; which medicines are safe for you; and what changes should trigger reassessment.