Cold vs. Sinus Infection: How to Tell the Difference
Key takeaways:
A sinus infection (sinusitis) is a common upper respiratory infection that can have many of the same symptoms as a cold.
You can treat a cold with simple at-home remedies without the need for antibiotics. Sinus infections can have serious complications and may need antibiotic treatment.
The best way to tell the difference between a cold and a sinus infection is by how long the symptoms last. Symptoms of a sinus infection usually last longer than cold symptoms.
Sniffles and coughs are common to many upper respiratory conditions — like colds and sinus infections (sinusitis). That’s why it can be hard to tell which illness you have. Knowing the difference between a cold and a sinus infection will help you get the right treatment.
Let’s take a closer look at the similarities and differences of the cold versus sinus infection, so you can get back on your feet faster.
Cold vs. sinus infection symptoms
Colds and sinus infections share many of the same symptoms. It can be hard to tell which infection you’re dealing with based on only one or two symptoms. Here are the symptoms colds and sinusitis have in common, and the ways in which these infections differ.
Cold | Sinus infection | |
|---|---|---|
Cause | • Virus | • Virus • Bacteria • Fungus |
Symptoms | • Sneezing • Watery eyes • Stuffy or runny nose • Postnasal drip • Cough • Sore throat | • Fever • Headache • Postnasal drip • Cough • Facial tenderness • Tooth pain • Fatigue • Bad breath |
Symptom duration | • Most symptoms resolve in a few days. • Cough can last weeks. | • Symptoms can last 10 days to weeks or may worsen. |
Cause of a cold vs. sinus infection
Viruses are the most common cause of colds. There are hundreds of different viruses that cause cold symptoms. The most common cold viruses are rhinovirus and coronavirus.
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But many different germs can cause sinus infection. Bacteria, fungi, and viruses — like those that cause the common cold and flu — can all lead to sinusitis.
Allergies can also lead to sinus infections by causing inflammation in the narrow sinus passages. If the sinuses are blocked, bacteria can grow, resulting in sinusitis. It’s quite common for people with allergies and colds to develop sinusitis.
Duration of a cold vs. sinus infection
Most cold symptoms go away on their own within 7 to 10 days. Coughing due to a cold virus may last a couple of weeks.
When symptoms last more than 10 days, it’s possible a sinus infection has developed. A sinus infection is more likely if you’ve had:
A recent cold or allergies
Fever
Symptoms that are worsening or last more than 10 days
Keep in mind that not all colds go away in short order. And sometimes a simple cold virus can lead to more bothersome illnesses like a sinus infection or even pneumonia. If your symptoms are severe or you have a fever lasting more than a few days, you should get medical attention.
Are your sinus symptoms lasting longer than expected? Here’s how to tell when you should get medical attention for sinusitis.
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How can you tell the difference between a sinus infection and a cold?
You may have noticed that colds and sinus infections have a lot of the same symptoms. So it can be hard to tell them apart. But some symptoms may give clues that you actually have a sinus infection versus a cold.
A sinus infection is more likely if you have cough and congestion along with other symptoms, such as:
A moderate or high-grade fever that lasts more than 2 days
Facial tenderness
Tooth pain
Keep in mind that a bacterial sinus infection is actually a complication of the common cold. That’s why the length of your illness can help to tell the difference between a cold and a sinus infection.
The common cold typically runs its course within 2 weeks. If your symptoms don’t lessen within 7 to 10 days — or they’re getting worse — you may be developing a sinus infection.
Treating a cold vs. sinus infection
Even though colds and sinus infections usually go away on their own, there are ways to improve the symptoms and make you feel better in the meantime. Many cold remedies can help relieve sinusitis symptoms, but not all treatments are useful for both infections.
Here’s a review of the most common ways to treat a cold versus sinus infection.
Treatment | Cold | Sinus infection |
|---|---|---|
Warm facial compress | Yes | Yes |
Saline nasal spray | Yes | Yes |
Pain relievers | Yes | Yes |
Decongestants | Yes | Yes |
Steroid nasal spray | No | Sometimes |
Cough suppressant | Yes | Yes |
Supplements (zinc, vitamin C) | Yes | Yes |
Throat lozenges | Yes | Yes |
Antibiotic | No | Sometimes |
You may need to visit a healthcare professional if you have lingering or worsening symptoms. They’ll take a detailed history of your illness and do a physical exam. Usually lab tests or X-rays aren’t necessary.
When to see a healthcare professional for a cold or sinus infection
Most colds and sinus infections can be treated at home. But sometimes you need to see a healthcare professional. Here’s when to get a checkup for your symptoms:
Intense headache or facial pain
Symptoms that start to improve but then get worse
Symptoms that last more than 10 days without getting better
Fever that lasts longer than 3 to 4 days
Multiple sinus infections within a year
Difficulty breathing or chest pain
Sudden dizziness
Any symptom that you find concerning
Frequently asked questions
Yes, a cold can lead to a sinus infection, and this happens quite commonly. But, a sinus infection doesn’t turn into a cold.
Yes, you can get a sinus infection without having a cold first. Allergies are one of the most common reasons for getting a sinus infection. Constant exposure to environmental triggers like cigarette smoke and blocked sinus cavities can also lead to sinus infections.
The best treatment for a sinus infection depends on the cause. Most sinus infections will go away on their own using only treatment for symptoms like pain and fever. Some sinus infections don’t get better on their own and may need an antibiotic. A healthcare professional will help decide which treatment is best for you based on your symptoms, medical history, and physical exam.
The bottom line
Colds and sinus infections are common illnesses, and their symptoms can overlap. You can usually treat a cold at home with simple over-the-counter remedies, and symptoms resolve in about 2 weeks. Sinus infections can last longer and may not resolve on their own without an antibiotic. Get medical attention if your symptoms aren’t getting better or you have a fever, intense headache, or facial pain. Your cold might be turning into a sinus infection.
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References
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2019). Sinus infection basics.
Mäkelä, M. J., et al. (1998). Viruses and bacteria in the etiology of the common cold. Journal of Clinical Microbiology.
Puhakka, T., et al. (2005). Sinusitis in the common cold. The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology.
Soudry, E., et al. (2015). Acute frontal sinusitis. The Frontal Sinus. Springer Nature.
