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Cold Symptoms Vs. Sinus Infection Symptoms

Colds are upper respiratory infections caused by a virus. A sinus infection occurs when the lining of sinuses is inflamed. Both conditions can be painful and uncomfortable and can be difficult to tell apart because they can share similar symptoms.

  1. Similar Symptoms

    • Symptoms of both a cold and a sinus infection include nasal congestion, fever, postnasal drip, nasal discharge, and pain or pressure in the face.

    Different Symptoms

    • Cold symptoms such as sore throat, muscle aches and a decreased appetite are not symptoms of sinus infection. Other sinus infection symptoms include bad breath and achy teeth.

    Causes

    • Colds are caused by a virus spread by sneezing, nose blowing or wiping, and human contact. Sinus infections occur with mucus build up. Causes include allergies, changes in temperature, smoking and swimming.

    Treatment

    • Treatment of colds includes rest, increasing fluids, medicines such as cough syrup, vitamins and supplements like Echinacea. Treatment of sinus infections includes saline nasal spray, decongestants, pain relievers such as ibuprofen, and antibiotics.

    Determination

    • Nasal congestion and pressure on one side of your face and symptoms getting worse after 10 days indicate a sinus infection. Symptoms across the face and getting better after 10 days indicate a cold.

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