The Common Cold Or A Sinus Infection | Health Plus

Dr David Chin, ENT surgeon at Parkway East Hospital, explains the differences between the common cold and a sinus infection.
Colds | Sinus infections |
---|---|
• Symptoms only last a few days | • Usually last more than 10 days without improving |
• Symptoms build, peak and disappear | • Cause pain and pressure in the face |
• Tend to produce clear or light-coloured mucus | • Tend to produce thick yellow or green mucus |
• Usually don't cause a fever | • Often cause a fever |
• Often have other symptoms like fever, body aches and sore throat | |
• Can lead to sinus infections |
Colds | Sinus infections |
---|---|
• The common cold is a virus | • Sinuses are air-filled spaces in your skull |
• There are more than 200 types | • When your sinuses are inflamed, bacteria breeds |
• The rhinovirus causes 50% of colds | • This can lead to bacterial sinusitis |
• Your body's immune response triggers your symptoms | • A cold or allergy can cause a sinus infection |
But if you have a fever, or if your symptoms are unmanageable or last longer than a few days, consult a doctor.
Infographic reviewed by Dr David Chin, ENT surgeon at Parkway East Hospital
References
DerSarkissian, C. (2013, July 30) When A Cold Becomes A Sinus Infection. Retrieved December 7, 2018 from https://www.webmd.com/cold-and-flu/cold-guide/cold-becomes-sinus-infection#2
Martin, L.J. (2018, July 9) What Is Sinusitis? Retrieved December 7 2018 from https://www.webmd.com/allergies/sinusitis-and-sinus-infection#2
Ratini, M (2015, July 1) Is It A Cold Or A Sinus Infection? Retrieved December 7 2018 from https://www.webmd.com/cold-and-flu/features/cold-sinus-infections#2
Ratini, M (2017, March 22) What Causes Cold Symptoms? Retrieved December 7 2018 from https://www.webmd.com/cold-and-flu/qa/what-causes-cold-symptoms