Allergies and sinus infections can have similar symptoms. Sinus infection (sinusitis). Adults have sinuses behind their cheeks, nose, and forehead. Sinus infections also cause thick, discolored mucus, and bad breath. Get plenty of sleep and stay hydrated during cold and flu season. Wash your hands frequently and avoid touching your nose, mouth or eyes. You have a fever (over 100.4 degrees) that persists beyond a few days. Mild, coldlike symptoms such as sore throats, sneezing,. Several types of COVID tests are available. Were swabbing everyone at my clinic with a respiratory viral panel, which is the same COVID swab, but in addition to COVID, it tells you what virus you have, such as rhinovirus (common cold) or a number of other respiratory viruses; even the flu.. Leukotriene antagonist drugs may be prescribed, and surgery may be considered in cases of a deviated septum. What Is a Sinus Infection? This article covers the key similarities and differences between the common cold and sinus infection, as well as what care looks like for these respiratory diseases. "You don't get off scot-free just because you happen to be infected in the time of omicron. Cookies collect information about your preferences and your devices and are used to make the site work as you expect it to, to understand how you interact with the site, and to show advertisements that are targeted to your interests. 2005-2023 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. Dr. Jorge Moreno said he's seen an influx of COVID-19 cases lately at his outpatient clinic in Connecticut. This is especially important as cases continue to rise. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Your doctor might check your mucus or do an imaging test to confirm the diagnosis. This is why you may feel pain or pressure in your face. sore throat. In general, people are contagious for two to three days before COVID-19 symptoms start. In severe cases, you may need to be treated by an ear, nose and throat doctor. As a result, you should experience fewer symptoms. American Lung Association. While the data doesn't distinguish between vaccinated and unvaccinated people, 70% of the UK population has had at least two vaccine doses as of Thursday. Hearing Aids Better For Dementia Than Pills. You dont necessarily have to see your doctor for your allergies. A sinus infection, or sinusitis, occurs when your nasal passages get infected. You should also see your doctor if your OTC antihistamines arent working. If you have COVID-19, you may also experience nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, body aches, and loss of taste or smell. Harvard Health Publishing Harvard Medical School. These droplets can land in the mouth or nose of someone nearby or be inhaled. "In this period, we still have delta circulating in the community. And the smell loss has been worse than the summer Delta surge. Last medically reviewed on November 20, 2018, A sinus infection occurs when your nasal cavities become swollen, infected, or inflamed. Using a humidifier in your bedroom might help. Youll need to take the full prescription, even if you start feeling better within a day or two. Heres a quick breakdown: While most coldsand even sinus infectionsclear up on their own, its important to know when you need medical help. ", Read the original article on Business Insider, Brittany Murray/MediaNews Group/Long Beach Press-Telegram/Getty Images, Jessica Christian/The San Francisco Chronicle/Getty Images, Patrick Pleul/Picture Alliance/Getty Images. And most of all, does this variant cause less severe disease than the variants that have come before it? "They're young people that typically can push through things. If youre not feeling well, talk to your doctor or find one near you. Sinusitis occurs when your nasal passages become inflamed. Some common sinus infection treatments include: According to the CDC, antibiotics are usually not needed for viral sinus infections. Also, the more stressed you are, the more likely you may experience more severe symptoms or a longer duration of illness. Discover how doctors determine whether your sinus infection is viral or bacterial. If you have a negative COVID test, we can see you and determine if you have an actual sinus infection and then determine the best treatment, Dr. Ruff says. Read onand to ensure your health and the health of others, don't miss these, Secret Weight Loss Tricks to Melt Visceral Fat, Science Says, Over 60? These block the immune systems histamine-producing response whenever you encounter an allergen. The nasal sinuses and the middle ear space or hollow pockets in the head and cranial bones that usually are filled with sterile air. <