Can you tell the difference between a Sinus Infection and a Cold?
The common cold is considered a viral upper respiratory tract infection. Old and new viruses which cause the common cold constantly attack our body and it is near impossible for it to build resistance against all of them.
Common Cold Symptoms
The most common symptoms of the cold would include clogged nasal passages which affect mucus drainage, sore throat, hoarseness, sneezing, cough, abnormal amounts of post-nasal drip and sometimes a fever or headache. These cold symptoms would normally be present for a period of three to 9 days from the onset.
Common Cold Treatment
Being a viral infection, there is no quick fix for the common cold. Antibiotics would not work since they only act against bacteria. In fact, due to the many cases of antibiotic-resistant bacteria reported, doctors have been cautioned against prescribing antibiotics indiscriminately. Natural home remedies can do a good job in alleviating cold symptoms, though not eradicating them completely.
Most people are able to purchase over -the-counter medications for relief unless there is a fever which is an indication of a bacterial infection. Lozenges are helpful when you have a sore throat. If you have a cough, cough mixtures can help thin the mucus produced for ease of drainage. Pseudoephredine (Sudafed) and antihistamines can help to unclog blocked nasal passages. Paracetamol can be taken if there is a fever or headache. Unless the pain becomes unbearable, Ibuprofen is a good alternative.
Sinusitis
A sinus infection, medically known as sinusitis, is a condition where the air-filled cavities, or sinuses, become inflamed and swollen. In addition to the above cold symptoms, other sinus infection symptoms would include:
1. Pain in the molars of the upper jaw
2. Pressure and puffiness around and between the eyes.
3. Frontal headaches
If cold symptoms last less than seven days, the likely culprit is a cold caused by a virus, and antibiotics are not needed.
If cold symptoms last longer than seven days or get worse and with pain mentioned above, the patient most likely has Acute Sinusitis and will likely need antibiotic treatment.
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Tags: acute sinusitis, common cold, sinus infection, sinus infection symptoms