QuestionHi. How can I tell the difference between the common cold and a sinus infection? Thanks.
AnswerSinus infections and common colds can be one in the same. The question is whether it is bacterial or viral.
Sinus congestion on both sides, runny nose, sore throat, pressure on both cheeks, swollen glands, cough and mucous production are all signs of both infections. In general, if the symptoms have been going on less than a week, it's likely viral. More than a week or ten days and it can develop into a bacterial infection that needs antibiotics. In general, the color of the mucuos doesn't matter (clear, yellow, or green).
True sinusitis only involves the sinuses, and usually doesn't have those other types of symptoms (sore throat, cough, swollen glands).
If you have pain on one side with yellow green mucous from only one side, then that should be treated promptly with an antibiotic for bacterial infection.
If you're a smoker, there is a lower threshold to treat with antibiotics because smoking increases the risk of bacterial infections.
