Long-Lasting Cold Symptoms May Be Sinusitis

Article

If your stuffy nose and headache last for more than two weeks, it may be more serious than a cold. Winter is prime season for sinusitis, as the condition most often results from the common cold. Allergy sufferers are also more likely to develop sinusitis.

An estimated 31 million Americans develop sinusitis each year, leading to 18 million physician visits and $5.8 billion in overall health expenditures according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI).

“Early on, the symptoms of colds and sinusitis are similar,” said Anju Peters, MD, chair of the AAAAI Rhinosinusitis Committee. “But if symptoms are worsening after three to five days, or if they are present for more than 10 days, then sinusitis is the likely culprit.”

Sinusitis occurs when drains in the sinus cavities – hollow areas behind the forehead and cheeks – become blocked due to inflammation caused by a cold or allergies. The blockage prevents mucous from draining normally, leading to infection.

Sinusitis is easily recognized by a green or gray nasal discharge, foul tasting post-nasal drip, facial pain/pressure or light fever.

Sinusitis can last for months, or even years, if not properly treated. A physician will typically prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection and patients may also use decongestants to relieve stuffiness.

An allergist/immunologist is the best-qualified medical professional to diagnose and treat underlying allergies that contribute to sinusitis. Use the AAAAI Physician Referral Directory at http://www.aaaai.org to find an allergist/immunologist near you.

Source: American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI)

Related Videos
Patient Safety: Infection Control Today's Trending Topic for March
Infection Control Today® (ICT®) talks with John Kimsey, vice president of processing optimization and customer success for Steris.
Picture at AORN’s International Surgical Conference & Expo 2024
Infection Control Today and Contagion are collaborating for Rare Disease Month.
Rare Disease Month: An Infection Control Today® and Contagion® collaboration.
Vaccine conspiracy theory vector illustration word cloud  (Adobe Stock 460719898 by Colored Lights)
Rare Disease Month: An Infection Control Today® and Contagion® collaboration.
Infection Control Today Topic of the Month: Mental Health
Infection Control Today's topic of the month: Mental Health
Related Content