When you think of catching a cold, you probably picture chilly winter months– but colds can happen year-round, including during the summer. If you’re dealing with a lingering runny nose, sinus pressure, or fatigue, you might be wondering whether it’s just a summer cold or something more serious, like a sinus infection. Although the symptoms can be similar, there are key differences between the two. In this blog, we’ll explore how to differentiate between a cold and sinus infection and when to seek professional care.
For same-day symptom relief, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Denver Park Hill. Our medical team can evaluate your condition and provide the best treatment possible. You can simply walk-in or plan your visit in advance by pre-registering below.
What Is a Summer Cold?
A summer cold is caused by a virus, typically one of the many rhinoviruses that circulate year-round. You might catch it after being around someone who’s sick, spending time in crowded public places, or simply having a weakened immune system. Common symptoms of a summer cold include:
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Sneezing
- Mild sore throat
- Fatigue
- Low-grade fever (sometimes)
- Cough or post-nasal drip
- Mild sinus pressure
Colds usually come on gradually and improve within 7 to 10 days. Symptoms may worsen for a few days before getting better, but they typically don’t require antibiotics and can be managed with rest, hydration, and over-the-counter remedies.
What Is a Sinus Infection?
A sinus infection, or sinusitis, happens when your sinuses become inflamed and filled with fluid, often after a cold or allergy flare-up. This fluid buildup can lead to bacterial growth, which may require antibiotic treatment if it doesn’t improve on its own. Signs you may have a sinus infection include:
- Facial pressure or pain, especially around the eyes, forehead, and cheeks
- Thick yellow or green nasal discharge
- Congestion that lasts more than 10 days
- Sinus headache
- Fatigue or feeling rundown
- Worsening symptoms after initial cold improvement
Sinus infections may start like a cold but persist longer and feel more intense, particularly in terms of pain and sinus pressure. If the infection is bacterial, you may need a prescription to clear it up.
When To Visit Urgent Care
You should stop in for an evaluation if:
- Your symptoms last longer than 10 days
- Pain or pressure around the face becomes severe
- You develop a high fever or feel significantly unwell
- Symptoms worsen after initial improvement
- Over-the-counter medications aren’t helping
An urgent care provider can assess whether your symptoms are due to a viral cold or a bacterial sinus infection. If needed, they can prescribe medications such as antibiotics, decongestants, or corticosteroid sprays to reduce inflammation and relieve pressure.
Get Walk-In Symptom Relief at AFC Urgent Care Denver Park Hill
It’s easy to mistake a lingering summer cold for a sinus infection, but recognizing the key differences can help you take the right steps toward feeling better. If your congestion, facial pain, or fatigue won’t go away– or if you’re unsure what’s causing your symptoms– come visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Denver Park Hill for fast, effective, and affordable urgent care. We’re here to help you breathe easier and get back to enjoying your summer in good health! Get a same-day diagnosis and treatment plan today at AFC Urgent Care Denver Park Hill. If you have any additional questions about your symptoms, please contact us directly at 303-639-1000.
