Dealing With A Runny Nose Can Be Annoying – The Sinus Infection Vs. Cold Version

The wildly fluctuating temperatures this month onwards can have us wondering how to deal with annoying flu-like symptoms. We may have a cold or a sinus infection (also called sinusitis), but how can we know for sure what the real deal is? Though we may be dealing with an extremely runny nose, there are other subtle pointers you can keep an eye out for to be able to differentiate better. The main thing to remember though-colds are normally caused by viruses while sinus infections can be bacterial or viral in nature. It could also mean your allergies are acting up.

Diagnosing A Cold Vs. A Sinus Infection

A runny nose can have you reaching for a handkerchief and blowing your nose won’t help much too. Keep snorting into the hanky and you will notice your nose getting red and sensitive. Add itchy eyes and a cough probably to the mix and you will feel like taking a holiday for personal reasons-forever! So, here is how to tell if you have a cold or a sinus infection

Symptoms for a Cold

• Severely sore feeling throat.
• Headache.
• A stuffy and runny nose.
• Feeling super tired after a bout of sneezing.
• Fever-may be low or high grade

A sinus infection, also called sinusitis can have similar symptoms, but watch out for these closely

Cold Vs. Sinus Infection Treatment

Since colds are mostly viral in nature, chilling at home is your best solution. Other medications that may be prescribed may be for fever or to reduce inflammation.

Since sinusitis is caused by bacterial agents, you will be prescribed antibiotics if symptoms persist for a while. Sinusitis is largely preventable though, if you choose to irrigate your nasal passages regularly. Other approaches can include prescribing steroids or mucus thinning syrups and even decongestants respectively. If sinusitis is affecting your quality of life, then surgical intervention may be recommended.

Cold Vs. Sinus Infection – Duration

Colds typically tend to last for about a week and resolve on their own but sinus infections need treatment and take much longer to get better. Always remember to finish the course of antibiotics, or you may have to deal with antibiotic resistant strains in the future. This can considerably worsen your prognosis in the long run.

Conclusion

Cold or sinusitis: whatever it may be can make your life miserable. Both are largely preventable if you follow hand hygiene well, and are cautious when someone else is infected in your vicinity. If you have the luxury of taking time off, then you could consider doing that. But if not, you could always get treated to feel better. Whatever the scenario, always remember to pay special attention to children and the elderly when they come down with a cold.