When you’re feeling sick, it can be difficult to tell whether it is a cold or sinus infection. Many symptoms, such as a runny nose, nasal congestion, postnasal drip, sore throat, cough, and severe headache, can be both cold symptoms and sinus infection symptoms. But there are important differences between a common cold and a bacterial sinus infection. Please continue reading to find out how to recognize the symptoms of a cold and sinus infection.

What is the common cold?

The common cold is a viral infection of the upper respiratory system (nose and throat). The average adult has 2-3 colds a year, and children can have cold symptoms even more frequently. Because common colds are viral infections, they do not respond to antibiotics. Symptoms of a cold typically last 5-7 days. Treatment for the common cold consists of self-care and supportive measures.

What are bacterial sinus infections?

A sinus infection or sinusitis is an infection and inflammation of the sinuses. The sinuses are four pairs of spaces (air-filled cavities) in the skull, connected to each other by narrow channels. They make mucus, which drains out of the nose and keeps it clear of bacteria. If the sinuses (which are normally hollow cavities) get blocked, they can become a breeding ground for bacteria. This can lead to a bacterial infection called an acute sinus infection. In addition, viral sinus infections can develop from a common cold.

Certain people are at a higher risk of developing sinus infections, including children,  smokers and those with health conditions like allergies, asthma, nasal polyps, and deviated nasal septum. 

An acute sinus infection lasts for less than 10 days and responds well to antibiotics. Some people can develop chronic sinusitis, where symptoms persist for more than 12 weeks. A sinus infection should receive treatment as soon as it is diagnosed.

Can a cold feel like a sinus infection?

A cold can feel like a sinus infection. Here are some ways to tell the difference between a sinus infection and a cold.

Symptoms of cold vs. sinus infection

Cold symptoms include runny or stuffy nose, thin whitish discharge, congestion of the nasal passages, sneezing, cough, sore throat, body aches, mild headache, low-grade fever, fatigue, and generally feeling unwell.

Common symptoms of acute sinusitis include nasal discharge, discolored mucus (green or yellow mucus), postnasal drip, facial pressure, facial pain, pain in the teeth and upper jaw, bad breath, cough, fatigue, and mild fever.

As you can see, some of the symptoms of a cold are also present in sinus infections. Other symptoms like sinus pressure, sinus pain, discolored discharge (yellow or green mucus), and bad breath are more commonly seen with a sinus infection. 

Duration of symptoms

Another way to tell whether it is a sinus infection or a cold virus is by the length of the illness. A cold typically develops quickly, peaks, and then gets better, lasting for a total of approximately 5-7 days. Most sinus infections resolve in 10-12 days. Therefore, if your symptoms last longer than a week, you should suspect a sinus infection.

What is the treatment for a sinus infection and a cold?

There is no cure for the common cold. A cold is caused by a virus and therefore cannot be treated with antibiotics (antibiotics are only effective against bacterial infections). Treatment of cold symptoms consists of supportive measures like rest, fluids, and over-the-counter decongestants, pain relievers, fever reducers, cough medicine, and cold and allergy medicines to reduce symptoms. 

The above measures also help with a sinus infection. In addition, your healthcare provider may prescribe antibiotics for bacterial sinusitis. If your sinus infection symptoms last more than a week or two (if you have chronic sinusitis), your doctor may prescribe nasal saline irrigation, a nasal spray, oral antihistamines, intranasal steroid sprays, and leukotriene antagonists (montelukast, zafirlukast).

How to prevent respiratory conditions like colds and sinus infections?

The best way to prevent common colds is:

• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water.
• Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Wear a face mask in crowded public places.
• Don’t share utensils and other personal items.
• Eat a healthy diet and get enough sleep to keep your immune system strong.
• Be especially careful if you are an older adult or have a weakened immune system. 

The best way to reduce your risk of sinus infections it to control your risk factors. Follow the tips mentioned above to reduce your risk of colds, which can transform into sinus infections. Avoid exposure to allergens like dust and mites, and follow instructions from your healthcare provider to treat your allergies. Drink plenty of fluids to keep mucus thin and prevent blockages in your sinuses. Rinse your nasal passages with saline to properly drain your sinuses. 

 References:

1. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/common-cold/symptoms-causes/syc-20351605
2. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17701-sinusitis