Both sinusitis and the common cold can cause similar symptoms including coughing, sneezing, congestion, and fatigue.

It can sometimes be difficult to tell the difference between the two.; however, there are a few key differences that can help you distinguish between them.

Common Cold

The common cold is a viral infection that usually affects the nose and throat. It’s most commonly caused by the rhinovirus, but can also be caused by other viruses such as coronavirus, adenovirus, or parainfluenza virus.

Symptoms of the Common Cold

The symptoms of the common cold can vary from person to person, but generally include:.

• Cough
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Fatigue
• Mild headache
• Sneezing
• Mild fever
• Muscle aches

These symptoms usually develop within two to three days of being in contact with the virus and can last anywhere from a few days to two weeks.

Sinusitis

Sinusitis is an inflammation of the lining of the sinuses. It can be caused by a viral infection, bacterial infection, or allergies. It is important to note that not all cases of sinusitis are caused by a bacterial infection.

In fact, the majority of cases are caused by a viral infection, which means antibiotics are not effective.

Symptoms of Sinusitis

The symptoms of sinusitis can also vary from person to person, but generally include:.

• Pain and pressure in the sinuses, which are located behind the forehead, cheekbones, and eyes.
• Nasal congestion and discharge
• Coughing
• Sore throat
• Low-grade fever
• Bad breath

Symptoms of sinusitis can last anywhere from a week to several weeks.

Related Article Understanding the differences between sinusitis and a cold

How to Differentiate

The following factors can help differentiate between sinusitis and the common cold:.

Symptom Duration

The duration of your symptoms can be a good indicator of whether you are suffering from a simple cold or sinusitis. While the common cold can last up to 10 days, sinusitis symptoms can last weeks, especially if it is not treated.

Severity of Symptoms

Sinusitis symptoms are usually more severe than the common cold. If you are experiencing symptoms such as a severe headache, fever, and facial pain, it is probably sinusitis.

Discharge Color

The color of your nasal discharge can also provide some clues. If your discharge is clear, it’s likely that you have a cold. However, if it’s yellow or green, it may be sinusitis.

Pain Around Sinus Area

Pain around the sinus area is a common symptom of sinusitis. If you have pain around your forehead, cheeks, or eyes, and this pain is not present during a common cold, it may be sinusitis.

Coughing Intensity

If your coughing is more intense and persistent, it may be due to sinusitis.

When to Seek Medical Attention

If your symptoms do not improve or worsen after a week, you should seek medical attention. Additionally, if you experience any of the following symptoms, it is important to see your doctor:.

• Facial pain
• Difficulty breathing
• High fever
• Stiff neck
• Vision changes
• Confusion or dizziness

Conclusion

While sinusitis and the common cold share some similarities, there are a few key differences that can help you distinguish between the two.

It is important to pay attention to the severity and duration of your symptoms and to seek medical attention if necessary.