What should I do for a sore throat, dizziness, and back pain suspected to be from allergies after taking Claritin (loratadine) and Motrin (ibuprofen)?

Management of Mild Sore Throat with Dizziness and Back Pain

For your symptoms of mild sore throat, dizziness ("daze"), and back pain that you suspect are from allergies, continue with the Claritin (loratadine) and Motrin (ibuprofen) you've already taken, but consider adding a first-generation antihistamine at bedtime if symptoms persist.

Assessment of Your Symptoms

Your symptoms suggest possible upper airway cough syndrome (UACS) secondary to allergic rhinitis, which can present with:

• Sore throat
• Feeling of being in a "daze" (possibly related to allergic symptoms)
• Back pain (which may be muscular or unrelated to the allergic symptoms)

Current Treatment Analysis

You've already taken:

• Claritin (loratadine) - a second-generation antihistamine
• Motrin (ibuprofen) - an NSAID for pain relief

Treatment Recommendations

Continue Current Medications

1. Ibuprofen (Motrin)

   • Effective for sore throat pain relief 1
   • Can be taken every 6 hours (400-800 mg) as needed for pain 2
   • Maximum daily dose: 2400 mg 2

2. Loratadine (Claritin)

   • Continue as directed for allergic symptoms
   • Note: Second-generation antihistamines like loratadine are less effective for non-histamine mediated symptoms 2

Additional Measures

1. Consider adding a first-generation antihistamine

   • First-generation antihistamines (like diphenhydramine/Benadryl) may be more effective for non-allergic symptoms due to their anticholinergic properties 2
   • Take at bedtime to minimize daytime sedation
   • Example: Diphenhydramine 25-50 mg at night

2. Hydration

   • Drink plenty of fluids to keep mucous membranes moist
   • Warm liquids may provide additional soothing effect

3. Saline nasal irrigation

   • Can help clear nasal passages and reduce postnasal drip that may be contributing to sore throat 2

4. Rest

   • Adequate rest will support your immune system's response

When to Seek Medical Care

Consult a healthcare provider if:

• Symptoms worsen or don't improve within 7 days
• You develop fever over 101°F
• Your dizziness becomes severe or is accompanied by vertigo
• You experience difficulty breathing or swallowing
• Your back pain becomes severe or is accompanied by other symptoms

Important Considerations

• First-generation vs. second-generation antihistamines: First-generation antihistamines (like diphenhydramine) may be more effective for non-allergic symptoms due to their anticholinergic properties, but can cause sedation 2
• Antihistamine timing: If using a first-generation antihistamine, take it at bedtime to minimize daytime sedation
• NSAID caution: Do not exceed recommended doses of ibuprofen, and take with food to minimize gastrointestinal side effects 3
• Allergic reactions: Discontinue any medication if you develop signs of an allergic reaction (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing) 4, 3

Your symptoms should begin to improve within a few days with these measures. If they persist or worsen, a healthcare provider can evaluate for other potential causes.