As the seasons change and temperatures fluctuate, respiratory infections become more common. Common cold and acute sinusitis are among the common infections in winters.
Both the conditions may show similar symptoms but there are symptoms that make them different, so understanding the nuances that differentiate them is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
The Common Cold
“The common cold is caused by rhinoviruses, a viral infection primarily affecting the upper respiratory system. The virus causing cold replicates in the cells of a living body, and it lives in the nose, throat, and trachea or upper respiratory tract,” said Dr Shashidhar, TB, Head - Surgery (ENT), Artemis Hospitals, Gurgaon.
It is one of the most prevalent illnesses worldwide, leading to millions of doctor visits annually. According to Dr common cold symptoms include:
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Sneezing
- Coughing
- Sore throat
- Post nasal drip
- Fatigue
The common cold usually runs its course within a week or two, with symptoms gradually improving over time. As per MayoClinic, nasal mucus may begin clear and then thicken and turn yellow or green.
Treatment focuses on alleviating symptoms and may involve rest, hydration, over-the-counter cold medications, and in some cases, antiviral medications.
Also read: There Are 150 Types Of Headaches, And Sinus Headaches Is One Of Them. Here’s What You Need To Know
Acute Sinusitis
When it comes to acute sinusitis then the primary cause is completely different. It is an inflammation of the sinuses that can be caused by viral, bacterial, or fungal infections. It often develops as a complication of the common cold when the nasal passages become congested, preventing proper drainage of the sinuses.
Key symptoms of acute sinusitis include:
- Facial pain or pressure
- Nasal congestion
- Thick yellow or green nasal discharge
- Headache
- Fever
- Bad breath
- Toothache
Unlike the common cold, acute sinusitis may persist for more than two weeks, and the symptoms can be more severe. Bacterial sinusitis may require antibiotics, while viral cases can be managed with supportive care, including nasal decongestants, saline nasal irrigation, and pain relievers.
Distinguishing Factors Between Sinusitis And Common Cold
Several factors can help distinguish between the common cold and acute sinusitis:
Duration of Symptoms
The common cold typically lasts one to two weeks, whereas acute sinusitis may persist for more than two weeks. According to the National Library of Medicine, most cases of acute sinusitis resolve within a week or ten days with home treatment. Others may suffer symptoms for several weeks.
- Facial pain and pressure are common in acute sinusitis but rare in the common cold.
- While the common cold may cause a mild fever, a higher fever is more indicative of acute sinusitis.
Although the common cold and acute sinusitis share similar symptoms, their underlying causes and duration distinguish them. Recognising the distinctions is important for avoiding potential difficulties. Seeking medical attention if symptoms persist or worsen is critical for an accurate diagnosis and suitable treatment.
Also read: Dealing With Sinus Headaches? Here's How You Can Manage It
You can adopt preventive measures, such as practising excellent hand hygiene and leading a healthy lifestyle, can also help lower the incidence of these illnesses.