Sinus infection symptoms and cold symptoms often appear similar, but there are some key differences that impact treatment.
Most colds go away within one week.
This prevents mucus from exiting the body and creates a breeding ground for infection to grow.
Illustration by Joules Garcia for Verywell Health
Chronic Sinus Infection
Cases of sinus infection that last longer than 12 weeks are considered chronic.
These cases may require additional treatment or surgery.
Certain coronaviruses and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) are also common.
Most people feel improvement after a couple of days.
What is the Difference Between Colds and Sinus Infections?
Distinguishing between the common cold and sinus infections can be challenging, even for healthcare providers.
Taking antibiotics unnecessarily makes it harder for your body to fight off bacterial infections in the future.
Your provider will determine if antibiotics are necessary.
Antibiotics will not work for viral cases, but they may be prescribed in bacterial cases.
Often the focus of treatment involves managing the severity of symptoms as natural immunity takes over.
Leukotriene antagonist drugs, which treat inflammation-related breathing difficulties, may be prescribed.
Surgery may be considered in cases of adeviated septum.
Prolonged use of OTC decongestant nasal sprays may increase sinus inflammation and make your condition worse.
Colds are more common than sinus infections and symptoms tend to improve quicker.
Sinusitis has a tendency to linger and cause sinus pressure, and facial pain.
Thankfully, both of these conditions are treatable.
Rest, relaxation, and fluids are great home remedies.
Medicinal treatment methods vary depending on if the infection is due to a virus or bacteria.
However, bacterial sinusitis cant be transmitted from person to person.
If symptoms dont go away after three months, youre considered to have a chronic sinus infection.
Loss of your sense of taste and smell sometimes accompanies a sinus infection.
If this persists, smell training therapy can help, though sometimes (rarely) this loss is permanent.
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