A pounding headache and a clogged nose are the most common warnings signs of many different health conditions. Because of this, many people find it very difficult to distinguish between an allergy, common cold, and sinus infection since these three illnesses share these common symptoms.
In some cases, even some doctors find it hard to tell the difference between the three. However, there are specific differences that could clue you in as to what illness you’re really struggling with. Read on to find out more about the common symptoms of these illnesses to help you determine what’s causing your condition.
What Does a Sinus Infection Feel Like?
Viruses and bacteria typically trigger sinus infections, but asthma, allergies, colds, and other conditions could likewise trigger them. Sinusitis or sinus infection could lead to feeling significant pressure and aching sensation on your face.
It also usually comes with fever, yellow or green nasal discharge, postnasal drip, aching teeth and a headache that radiates from your head to your teeth. Your face might likewise feel very tender. Depending on the severity of the infection, it might clear up without medical intervention.
Otherwise, you might need medication. That said, if your symptoms persist for more than seven days, look up ENT specialists in Colorado to get professional diagnosis and treatment.
What Does a Cold Feel Like?
Viruses usually cause colds. Expect to see discolored mucus and experience runny and congested nose, coughing, fatigue, headache, sneezing, and sore throat. Another common warning sign of a cold is a low fever that most people mistake it for mere allergies.
Colds typically heal without treatment within a week to 10 days. However, if you’re still experiencing symptoms after 10 days, chances are that you have sinusitis instead of a cold. If you think you have sinusitis, visit an ENT as soon as possible for proper treatment.
What Does an Allergic Reaction Feel Like?
Allergens trigger allergic reactions. You might experiencea runny nose, nasal congestion, sneezing, watery and clear discharge, as well as itchy eyes and nose. Allergies rarely cause fever, and when they do, it usually means that they got aggravated and progressed to a sinus infection cold.
Common allergens found indoors include dust, animal dander, and mold, while outdoor allergens typically include pollen and pollution. If indoor allergens trigger your allergies, you might experience symptoms all throughout the year.
If your allergies are seasonal, you might experience symptoms during fall and spring.
When Allergies and Colds Progress to Sinus Infections
It’s important to note that even if your symptoms are caused by colds or allergies, it does not necessarily mean that it won’t progress to a sinus infection. This is due to the fact that when individuals have allergies or colds, their sinuses might swell up and promote congestion, that could, in turn, result in sinusitis.
With this in mind, it’s best that you try to address your allergy or cold symptoms as early on as possible to prevent them from spiraling out of control.
