At the start, a sinus infection and a common cold can feel almost identical. Both may bring congestion, a runny nose, and facial pressure. However, as the days go on, the differences often become clearer. Understanding how a sinus infection feels compared to a cold can help you decide whether home care is enough or if medical treatment may be needed.
If you’re feeling under the weather, and aren’t sure whether your condition requires medical treatment or can be handled at home, it’s better to be safe rather than sorry and seek medical evaluation. Delaying care can cause symptoms to worsen and lead to complications. That is why AFC Urgent Care Chestnut Hill offers rapid same-day illness symptom evaluation and treatment at our walk-in clinic in Newton, MA! Just walk into the clinic when it’s convenient, or save extra time and save your spot online in advance below.
What Are the Differences Between Cold and Sinus Infection Symptoms?
A cold is a viral infection that affects the upper respiratory tract and usually improves within a week to ten days. Symptoms tend to be milder and gradually resolve on their own. They can impact the respiratory symptom, and often lead to symptoms like coughing, nasal congestion, a sore throat, fatigue, and post-nasal drip.
A sinus infection (sinusitis) is a bacterial infection that occurs when the sinus cavities become inflamed and blocked, trapping mucus and allowing bacteria to grow. Sinus infections often develop after a cold that isn’t properly managed. Unlike a cold, sinus infections cause sinus pressure that is localised and persistent and can also lead to symptoms like severe fatigue, headaches, and a fever.
Common Causes of Colds and Sinus Infections
Colds are caused by viruses, most commonly rhinoviruses, and spread easily through close contact, coughing, or contaminated surfaces. Sinus infections may be viral or bacterial, but they often follow an infection like colds, allergies, or upper respiratory infections that cause prolonged nasal congestion. Severe mucus build up in the sinuses caused by these primary conditions can lead to bacteria growth in the sinuses, which is a sinus infection. Structural issues such as nasal polyps or a deviated septum can also increase the risk of sinus infections developing.
When Do You Need an Antibiotic for a Cold or Sinus Infection?
Antibiotics are not effective for colds, because colds are caused by viruses and antibiotics are only effective against bacterial infections. While sinus infections can be caused by a viral infection, a sinus infection is the bacterial growth that occurs within the sinuses, so antibiotics may be considered for sinus infection treatment if symptoms last longer than 10 days or are severe. Some cases of sinus infections can clear up on their own with proper symptom management.
Get Sinus Infection Treatment at AFC Urgent Care Chestnut Hill
If you’re experiencing severe congestion that is persistent or worsening over time, seeking medical evaluation can help determine whether a sinus infection has formed and how to best treat your symptoms. At AFC Urgent Care Chestnut Hill, we offer comprehensive illness evaluation, including diagnostic testing on-site, and treatment for common conditions like sinus infections.
We work with most medical insurance plans, and we have affordable self-pay rates for patients without insurance coverage. Our clinic is located in Chestnut Hill, MA, and we offer same-day care on a walk-in basis 7 days a week - no appointment necessary. Walk in today, or give us a call to learn more at (617) 582-2200.
