It’s an easy mistake to assume a sinus infection is a lingering cold. However, knowing when symptoms signal something more serious can help you get proper treatment at the right time.
At ENT Specialists of Austin, our board-certified physicians treat chronic and acute sinusitis with expert diagnostic tools and effective care plans tailored to each patient’s needs. In this blog, our team reviews the key differences between a cold and sinusitis so that you can decide when it’s time to see an ENT specialist.
Cold vs. Sinus Infection: What’s the Difference?
Colds are caused by viruses and typically resolve within 7 to 10 days. They often come with sneezing, a runny nose, sore throat, and mild fatigue. While nasal congestion is common with a cold, the symptoms generally improve with rest and over-the-counter remedies.
Sinusitis, on the other hand, is inflammation of the sinus lining. It may start as a cold, but when nasal passages stay swollen or blocked, trapped mucus can create the perfect environment for bacterial growth. This leads to sinus infection, which usually requires more than just rest to resolve.
Signs It May Be Sinusitis
You might have sinusitis if you experience:
- Facial pain or pressure around the eyes, cheeks, or forehead
- Thick yellow or green nasal discharge
- Nasal congestion that lasts more than 10 days
- Headaches that worsen when bending forward
- Postnasal drip and sore throat
- Bad breath
- Reduced sense of smell or taste
- Fatigue that feels more intense than with a typical cold
If symptoms last more than 10 days without improvement — or worsen after initially getting better — it could be a sign of bacterial sinusitis. In some cases, patients develop chronic sinusitis, which lasts 12 weeks or longer and often requires specialized treatment.
Why See an ENT for Sinusitis?
While many sinus infections resolve on their own, recurrent or chronic sinusitis often needs expert evaluation. At ENT Specialists of Austin, we use advanced diagnostics, such as nasal endoscopy and imaging, to get to the root of the issue. Our team offers comprehensive treatment options ranging from prescription medications to minimally invasive procedures like balloon sinuplasty.
We tailor each plan to the individual, with a focus on restoring long-term sinus health and preventing future infections.
Get Relief from Sinus Pressure and Pain
If your cold isn’t going away — or keeps coming back — it may be time to talk with a sinus specialist. ENT Specialists of Austin provides trusted care for patients across Austin, TX, with a full range of treatments for acute and chronic sinusitis. Contact (512) 346-7600 or request an appointment online to take the first step toward lasting relief.