Feeling under the weather? Have you had a lingering cold that just won’t go away? You may be wondering if you have a head cold or a sinus infection. Here are a few ways to tell the difference between the two!
Head colds are typically caused by viruses. The common cold will last a few days, and then clear up on its own. This viral infection of your upper respiratory tract (nose and throat) will cause a runny nose, cough, sore throat, sneezing and congestion. The drainage from the nose from a head cold is generally clear mucus. If your cold is lasting longer than a week or 10 days, and you begin to develop some facial pressure or headaches and the clear mucus drainage becomes discolored (yellow or greenish), it may have developed into a secondary bacterial infection leading to a sinus infection (sinusitis).
Symptoms of a sinus infection include headaches, facial pain, and pressure. You will also have nasal congestion and drainage along with pain in your upper jaw and teeth. If your symptoms do not improve, you should contact your physician.
Here are a few ways to prevent a cold.
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Stay hydrated! As soon as you feel symptoms, start drinking water.
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Gargle with warm water and salt to flush out bacteria and clear mucous.
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Warm moisture from a hot shower can help to clear up your nasal passages.
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Have a cup of tea with 1-2 tablespoons of honey.
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Get plenty of rest!
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Eat healthy foods that will boost your immune system.
If you have symptoms of a sinus infection, call us to schedule an appointment with a physician (949) 566-8179.