_{How do you cope when you have cold with IIH?}

Was just wondering if anyone has any tips on how to cope when you have cold with IIH. I am still awaiting an official diagnosis, don't see Neurologist for 2 weeks. I am on Diamox and had started to think may be I was starting to cope a bit better with the tablets and that they were maybe working. However have just started with cold which obviously has not helped the headaches but I have also noticed that my vision has deteriorated slightly it had cleared completely after the Lumbar puncture. I wondered if anyone had experienced this when they have cold. I presume it is something to do with the changes in pressure because of the cold. I have always reached for the cold cure capsules previously but having read that some of these can make matters worse I am at present managing on paracetamol and olbas oil. I would like to hear from anyone about how they cope with colds and IIH

Wish I could help, Lizzie, but I haven't had any serious colds since the start of my IH.
It sounds like what you are doing is very practical. Can you put in a call to your doc and ask his opinion?

Ick! Colds/allergies/sinus infections are the total pits since I've had IIH! The extra pain and pressure of the sinus congestion on top of an already-pressurized head can feel like torture. I feel your pain! *hugs*

First of all, it was helpful to me to ask my doctor what I could take. For instance, I had always taken Allegra-D, but he suggested I switch to plain Allegra, since the decongestant in the "D" might actually cause in increase in my IIH symptoms. Secondly, it helps me to do whatever I can to relieve the congestion in my sinuses/ears ... my two favorite things to use are cold cloths over my sinuses, and a vaporizer or a vapo-rub with the eucalyptus to help clear the sinuses.

Other than that, it's just resting and waiting it out, unfortunately. At the first sign that it may be progressing to a sinus or ear infection, I always get to my GP so he can assess if antibiotics are needed. Hopefully it won't get to that point for you this time though! *hugs* Hope these suggestions help and hope you feel better really quick!

Plenty of fluids and rest, all the usual applies. Ask the Pharmacist what cold remedy is compatible with your medication if you feel you need one.

Heidi

Thanks everyone

*From Facebook*
Gemma Hodkinson - I always take an allergy tablet to stop the sneezing and ease the congestion