When you get sick in the winter, it’s hard to know whether you’re suffering from allergy symptoms, a cold or a sinus infection. Here’s how to tell the difference.
A cold
What to look for
- Sore throat
- Cough
- Headache
- Stuffy nose
- Sneezing or green/yellow mucus
- Fatigue
- Swollen sinuses
- Fever
What causes it
A virus
How long it lasts
7-10 days
How to treat it
Because a cold is a virus, antibiotics won’t help, so you want to treat the symptoms instead. Your pharmacist should be able to direct you to the appropriate over-the-counter medicines. All colds benefit from plenty of fluids and rest, and some sufferers find relief using sinus irrigation.
Sinus infection
What to look for
- Fever
- Cough
- Fatigue
- Bad breath
- Mucus drainage (yellow/green)
- Headache that gets worse when you lean forward or lie down
- Tender face and neck or pressure behind the eyes and cheeks
- Runny/stuffy nose lasting more than a week
- Decreased sense of smell or taste
What causes it
Infected nasal passages. Most often these are caused by a virus, bacteria or allergies, but infections can also be brought on by colds or asthma.
How long it lasts
7-10 days
How to treat it
Again, treat the symptoms. If your condition doesn’t improve in 7-10 days, see your doctor.
- You may be suffering a bacterial sinus infection, which can be treated with an antibiotic.
- If you suffer from chronic sinusitis, you may find relief using a nasal spray that contains capsaicin, which can help keep nasal passages clear and prevent infection.
What to look for
- Nasal congestion
- Runny nose (clear, watery discharge)
- Sneezing
- Itchy nose or eyes
- No fever
What causes it
Allergens, the most common of which are:
- Mold, dust and animal dander (indoors)
- And pollen and ragweed (outdoors)
How long it lasts
- Indoors: If the allergens are indoors and you don’t change your environment, you may experience symptoms year-round
- Outdoors: Seasonal allergies typically last through the spring or fall
How to treat it
Identify and avoid your allergy triggers and avoid irritants such as smoke or pollution. If your symptoms are serious, a doctor may recommend allergy shots to desensitize you over time.
You can also try these 5 natural remedies for allergies.
