I woke to a sore throat and headache. I’ve also had headaches on and off for a few days, accompanied by a volume increase of my tinnitus. All this indicates the return of a sinus infection—the consequence of severe ear infections as a child and excessive smoking of both cigarettes and marijuana in my past.

Back in 2013, I had Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery. It cleared out my sinuses enough to make exercise less of a chore. However, due to the above-mentioned issues, my ENT doctor informed me I would experience continued sinus infections, especially after having a cold. However, I have routinely used a Neti pot to clean my sinuses. That means any infections I do get tend to be deeper where the Neti pot cannot reach. Also, there are humidifiers strategically placed throughout the house. That means I don’t experience as severe an infection as pre-surgery.

Still, all that considered, this morning’s symptoms necessitated my calling in sick. I will be scheduling an appointment at my Urgent Care and see about a course of antibiotics.

Oh, and this happened overnight:

This means breaking out my new electric snowblower. I’m looking forward to using it. It’s much lighter and easier to maneuver compared to its gas-powered cousins. And I’m not all that bothered by an extension cord.