Common cold or sinus infection? Doctors tell you how to identify it
Lifestyle : Common cold can be a nuisance, but it is important to recognize when it is turning into a serious illness. Nasal congestion, runny nose and mild facial pain are common symptoms, but if left untreated, they can turn into a sinus infection.
This complication requires specialised treatment and attention. Understanding the subtle differences in symptoms and treatment options is important for timely recovery and immediate relief from discomfort. Being aware of these differences can prevent a simple cold from turning into a more severe and painful sinus infection. Dr Deepti Sinha, Chief Consultant, ENT Department, CK Birla Hospital, Delhi, explains the difference between a cold and sinusitis and also shares the symptoms of both.
Symptoms of a common cold – Runny or blocked nose – Sneezing – Sore throat – Mild cough – Fatigue – Mild body aches Symptoms usually last 3-7 days. Symptoms of sinusitis – Nasal congestion and thick yellow-green discharge – Facial pain or pressure around the eyes, cheeks and forehead – Headache that gets worse when bending over – Loss of sense of smell – Bad breath – Fatigue – Fever (more common in bacterial sinusitis). Symptoms can last for weeks or months.
Cold or sinusitis: the main differences
Duration – A cold usually resolves within 5-7 days, while sinusitis can last for weeks or months.
Colour of phlegm: Colds usually produce clear phlegm, while sinusitis often produces thick yellow or green phlegm.
Facial pain – Sinusitis often causes pain or pressure in the face, which is not usually associated with a cold.
Fever – Sinusitis can cause a fever, especially if it is bacterial.
When to seek medical help – Symptoms that last longer than 7 days without improvement – Swelling of the face with high fever – Frequent sinus infections – Pain around the eyes or changes in vision – Severe headache or facial pain
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