A cold usually starts off mildly, sneezing, a runny nose, maybe a sore throat and then slowly fades away. But sometimes, instead of improving, symptoms linger or intensify. When congestion deepens and facial pain or sinus pressure develops, many people begin to wonder whether their cold has turned into a sinus infection. Knowing how this transition feels can help you recognise when to seek medical attention.
At AFC Urgent Care Attleboro, our board-certified medical providers are experts in providing rapid same-day care for common conditions like sinus infections. Our clinic is open 7 days a week from 8am to 8pm, and we never require patients to schedule an appointment in advance - just walk in when it’s convenient, or save your spot online in advance below!
Signs Congestion May Actually Be Sinusitis
One of the strongest indicators that a cold has progressed into a sinus infection is how long symptoms last and how they change. A typical cold should steadily improve within a week. If you notice that congestion is lingering beyond 10 days, or worsening instead of easing, or is leading to worsening symptoms like sinus pressure - sinusitis is likely.
Getting Relief from Sinus Infection Symptoms
For mild sinus symptoms, home care can provide relief. Staying hydrated helps thin mucus, making it easier for the sinuses to drain. Warm compresses over the face, steam inhalation, saline nasal sprays, and humidifiers can ease pressure and congestion. Over-the-counter pain relievers and decongestants may help manage discomfort overall.
However, relief may be limited if the sinuses remain blocked or the infection worsens. Pushing through symptoms without proper treatment can increase the risk of complications, such as chronic sinusitis and lead to symptoms that last for weeks.
When to Visit Urgent Care
If you’re experiencing symptoms of a sinus infection, visiting urgent care is an important step. You should always seek medical attention for high fever, intense facial pain, swelling around the eyes, symptoms lasting more than 10 days, or symptoms that improve and then suddenly worsen.
Your medical provider can assess your symptoms, determine whether the infection is viral or bacterial, and recommend appropriate treatment that provides fast relief. Early medical evaluation helps prevent complications, shortens recovery time, and ensures your cold-turned-sinus infection is treated safely and effectively.
Walk Into AFC Attleboro for Sinus Infection Treatment
Sinus infections can be extremely uncomfortable, and cause mild congestion to worsen over time into a severe condition. If you suspect your congestion could be turning into a sinus infection because you’re experiencing severe congestion over a long period of time, facial pressure, sinus pain, or a fever - you should always seek medical evaluation for symptom diagnosis and treatment.
At AFC Urgent Care Attleboro, our walk-in urgent care clinic offers prompt symptom diagnosis for sinus congestion. We’re open 7 days a week in Attleboro, MA and have short wait times. Our clinic works with most medical insurance plans, and we have affordable self-pay rates. To learn more, visit the clinic for rapid care or give us a call at (774) 254-9500.
