Being sick is never fun. Colds are very contagious viral infections that can lead to a variety of different symptoms. Sore throats, congestion, coughing, runny noses, and fatigue are all common symptoms associated with colds. Colds affect the upper respiratory system, including your sinuses. While most cold symptoms are mild and go away on their own, untreated congestion can lead to complications like sinus infections. This article will review how to determine if your congestion could be turning into a sinus infection.

If you’re feeling under the weather, AFC Urgent Care Centennial can help. We offer same-day care for many common illnesses, including colds and sinus infections. Our walk-in clinic is available every day to provide rapid symptom diagnosis and treatment, and we accept patients of all ages. Simply walk into the clinic when it’s convenient, or save your spot online in advance using the button below.

Understanding the Connection Between Colds and Sinus Infections

Colds and sinus infections are two completely different illnesses. While colds are caused by contagious viral infections, sinus infections are caused by bacterial infections within the sinuses. However, in some cases, severe cold symptoms can lead to a sinus infection. This is because severe congestion that is left untreated can grow bacteria and lead to a sinus infection.

When to Seek Medical Treatment for Congestion

If you’re feeling under the weather, you should never try to wait it out and hope your symptoms go away. Failing to effectively treat them can lead to complications like sinus infections. In many cases, cold symptoms can be effectively managed with OTC medications like decongestants, nasal sprays, sore throat lozenges, and ibuprofen. However, if your symptoms are severe, including severe congestion, a fever, body aches, or facial pressure, you should seek medical care. Similarly, if your symptoms won’t go away or are getting worse with time, you should seek medical care for proper symptom diagnosis and treatment.

Treatment Options for Sinus Infections

If you think you have a sinus infection, you need to seek medical care. Sinus infections are bacterial infections, and they require treatment with antibiotics. In most cases, symptoms resolve within a few days after starting antibiotics. However, if left untreated, sinus infection symptoms can last for weeks. OTC medications may also help manage symptoms while you wait for the infection to clear up.

Walk Into AFC Centennial for Same-Day Illness Symptom Diagnosis and Treatment

Colds are very common illnesses that often go away on their own, however, in some cases symptoms like congestion can develop into secondary infections. If your symptoms are worsening with time, you should seek medical care. Your medical provider will be able to evaluate your symptoms, perform diagnostic testing, and prescribe medication to clear up a sinus infection.

At AFC Urgent Care Centennial, our walk-in clinic is open every day to provide same-day treatment for colds and sinus infections. We have short wait times, and don’t require patients to schedule an appointment in advance. Simply walk in when it’s convenient. We work with most medical insurance plans and have competitive rates for self-paying patients. To learn more, give us a call at (303) 220-9168.