A cold can feel bad. A sinus infection can feel worse. Sometimes a runny nose and a sore throat are just a cold. Other times, they can be a sign of a sinus infection. Here, we will help you know the difference and determine is it a cold or sinus infection. We will also tell you when to come to Medicross Clinic and Urgent Care.
What Is a Sinus Infection?
Your sinuses are air spaces in your face. They sit behind your forehead, nose, and cheeks. When they get blocked, mucus builds up. Germs can grow in the mucus. That makes a sinus infection. Doctors call it sinusitis.
Cold Versus Sinus Infection
Colds and sinus infections can share many signs. But they are not the same. When trying to distinguish between a cold or sinus infection, look for these differences:
Cold:
- Starts slowly.
- Clear nasal discharge, sneezing, and a sore throat.
- Lasts about 5 to 7 days.
- Feels like general tiredness.
Sinus Infection:
- Pain or pressure in the face.
- Thick yellow or green mucus.
- Less sneezing, more pressure.
- May last longer than a week.
- Can cause bad breath or a tired feeling.
Signs It Might Be More Than a Cold
Look for these specific signs of a sinus infection vs cold. They can mean the sinus infection is more serious.
- Face Pain or Pressure: Your cheeks or forehead hurt. The pain gets worse when you bend over.
- Fever: Your body feels hot and you have a fever.
- Thick, Colored Mucus: Mucus that is yellow or green and does not get better, unlike the clear nasal discharge usually seen with a cold.
- Symptoms Last More Than 10 Days: If you are not better after 10 days, it could be a sinus infection.
- Sudden Worse Symptoms: If you begin to feel significantly worse after experiencing some improvement.
- Trouble Breathing or Severe Headache: These need a quick check by a doctor.
- Bad Smell or Taste: You notice a foul smell in your nose or mouth.
- Ear or Tooth Pain: Sinus pressure can cause these pains, too.
If you recognize these sinus cold symptoms, it is time to see a health care provider.
When To See Us at Medicross Clinic and Urgent Care
We care for many needs. We treat common visits and general illnesses. We help with injuries and we offer wellness checks. We also have a weight loss program. If you think your cold is a sinus infection, we can help.
Come to us if:
- Your symptoms last more than 10 days.
- You have a fever or bad pain.
- You have trouble breathing.
- You feel very weak or confused.
You can make an appointment or use same-day care when you need it. We offer friendly help that is quick and simple. We will listen. We will check you. We will explain things in plain words.
How We Help with Sinus Problems
At Medicross Clinic and Urgent Care, we do simple tests and checks. We will look in your nose, and we may check your ears and throat. We will ask how long you have felt sick to determine if it is a lingering cold or sinus infection.
Care can include:
- Rest and fluids advice.
- Medicine for pain and fever.
- Nasal sprays or saline to clear the nose.
- In some cases, antibiotics if a doctor thinks germs need to be treated.
- Tips to prevent future sinus problems.
We will only give medicines you need. We will explain how to use them.
Home Care That Helps
You can do small things at home to feel better while managing sinus cold symptoms:
- Rest more. Your body heals when you rest.
- Drink water and warm soups.
- Use a warm cloth on your face to ease pain.
- Try a saline nose spray to clear mucus.
- Use a cool mist humidifier in the room.
- Wash your hands a lot to stop germs from spreading.
Do not use nasal sprays for more than a few days unless a doctor tells you. Overuse can make things worse.
When To Call 911 Or Go to The Emergency Room
Go to the emergency room if you have:
- Trouble breathing.
- Severe confusion or very bad drowsiness.
- Suddenly, a very bad headache or vision changes.
- Signs of a serious infection (high fever, facial swelling).
These are rare, but they need urgent care.
Final Words
You know your body best. If a cold feels different, or you feel worse after a few days, come see us. At Medicross Clinic and Urgent Care, we treat common visits, injuries, general illnesses, and wellness needs. We also offer a weight loss program. We offer same-day care and easy appointments. We will listen and help you feel better. You do not have to wait until you do not feel well.
If you are not sure, come in or call. We are here to help you and your family stay healthy.
FAQs
Q. How is that different from a cold?
A cold often gets better in a few days. A sinus infection may last longer and feel worse after 10 days.
Q. How long does a sinus infection last?
Many get better in two weeks. Some last longer. Chronic problems last 12 weeks or more.