Is that sniffle more than it seems?
Dr David Chin, ENT surgeon at Parkway East Hospital, explains the differences between the common cold and a sinus infection.
The symptoms do cross over
Sneezing
Sore throat
Fatigue
Runny nose
Headache
Cough
But here’s how they differ:
Colds
Sinus infections
• Symptoms only last a few days
• Usually last more than 10 days without improving
• Symptoms build, peak and disappear
• Cause pain and pressure in the face
• Tend to produce clear or light-coloured mucus
• Tend to produce thick yellow or green mucus
• Usually don’t cause a fever
• Often cause a fever
• Often have other symptoms like fever, body aches and sore throat
• Can lead to sinus infections
What causes them?
Colds
Sinus infections
• The common cold is a virus
• Sinuses are air-filled spaces in your skull
• There are more than 200 types
• When your sinuses are inflamed, bacteria breeds
• The rhinovirus causes 50% of colds
• This can lead to bacterial sinusitis
• Your body’s immune response triggers your symptoms
• A cold or allergy can cause a sinus infection
Preventive measures to take
Avoid triggers like dust and pollen where possible
Wash and sanitise your hands regularly
Avoid touching your face
Quit smoking
Treating a cold or a sinus infection starts the same
Get plenty of rest
Drink extra fluids
Inhale steam
Use a nasal rinse
But if you have a fever, or if your symptoms are unmanageable or last longer than a few days, consult a doctor.
Infographic reviewed by Dr David Chin, ENT surgeon at Parkway East Hospital
References
DerSarkissian, C. (2013, July 30) When A Cold Becomes A Sinus Infection. Retrieved December 7, 2018 from https://www.webmd.com/cold-and-flu/cold-guide/cold-becomes-sinus-infection#2
Martin, L.J. (2018, July 9) What Is Sinusitis? Retrieved December 7 2018 from https://www.webmd.com/allergies/sinusitis-and-sinus-infection#2
Ratini, M (2015, July 1) Is It A Cold Or A Sinus Infection? Retrieved December 7 2018 from https://www.webmd.com/cold-and-flu/features/cold-sinus-infections#2
Ratini, M (2017, March 22) What Causes Cold Symptoms? Retrieved December 7 2018 from https://www.webmd.com/cold-and-flu/qa/what-causes-cold-symptomsHealth Plus
