Most people experience a cold at some point during the year, usually brought on by a viral infection that affects the nose and throat. While colds are generally mild and resolve within a week or two, sometimes the symptoms can worsen or linger, signaling a potential sinus infection (sinusitis). Sinus infections occur when the sinuses become inflamed due to bacteria, viruses, or even fungi. Recognizing the difference between a lingering cold and a developing sinus infection is important, as it helps guide proper treatment and prevents complications. Understanding the key characteristics, warning signs, and treatment options can ensure you get relief quickly and avoid unnecessary discomfort.

For same-day illness treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care West Orange. Our urgent care center provides illness testing and treatment 7 days a week to patients in West Orange, NJ and the surrounding towns. Just walk-in or plan your visit in advance below!

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Characteristics of Colds and Sinus Infections

While colds and sinus infections share some symptoms, there are important differences:

• Duration: Colds usually last 7 - 10 days, whereas sinus infections can persist for 10 days or longer and sometimes become chronic. 

• Cause: Most colds are viral, while sinus infections can be bacterial, viral, or rarely fungal. 

• Symptom progression: Colds generally improve over time, whereas sinus infections may start similarly but worsen after a few days.

Symptoms associated with a cold include:

• Runny or stuffy nose 

• Sneezing 

• Mild fatigue or body aches 

• Sore throat 

• Low-grade fever (sometimes)

Symptoms That May Indicate a Sinus Infection

Signs that your cold may have developed into a sinus infection include:

• Persistent nasal congestion that doesn’t improve after 10 days 

• Thick yellow or green nasal discharge 

• Facial pain or pressure around the eyes, forehead, or cheeks 

• Headache that worsens when bending forward 

• Fever, especially if higher than what you experienced with the initial cold 

• Bad breath or reduced sense of smell

Treatment Options for Sinus Infections

• Mild sinus infections often resolve on their own, but there are ways to relieve symptoms: 

• Stay hydrated and rest to support your immune system. 

• Use saline nasal sprays or rinses to clear mucus and relieve congestion. 

• Over-the-counter pain relievers can reduce facial pressure or headaches. 

• Decongestants may help shrink swollen nasal tissues.

Get Walk-In Illness Testing & Treatment at AFC Urgent Care West Orange in West Orange, NJ

If symptoms are severe, last longer than 10 days, or include high fever or vision changes, it’s important to seek medical care. Urgent care centers can evaluate your condition, perform diagnostic tests, and prescribe antibiotics if a bacterial sinus infection is present. Prompt treatment helps prevent complications and ensures faster relief, allowing you to recover fully and return to your normal routine. Come visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care West Orange for convenient, quality care. We are dedicated to providing exceptional urgent care to all patients in the West Orange, NJ area and surrounding communities. Our center accepts most major insurance plans and offers low-cost options. If you have any additional questions about the services we provide, please call our medical team directly at (973) 669-5900.