Diagnosing a Sinus Infection

You can probably usually tell right away when youlonger then 3 days. A sinus infection's symptoms
have a cold or allergies because the symptoms -include a fever.
sneezing, headaches, sinus pressure or a stuffy nose,Coughing. A cough is a sign of sickness. It may be a
are always so obvious. However, how can you besymptom of just a cold, but also might mean more.
confident that it is allergies instead of some otherAgain, when accompanied by other symptoms of
illness? If you think what you have might be moreinfections, it is highly likely that the cause of the
serious, take a look at this list of symptoms to figurecough is the infection and not a cold. One symptom
out if it's a sinus infection or not.of a sinus infection is a cough which gets worse in
It's common for a sinus infection to be diagnosed asthe evening hours.
a URTI. Family doctors can sometimes mistake thisPain in the neck. You should monitor any buildup in
infection for an Upper Respiratory Tract Infection (oryour sinus cavity, as it can lead to a splitting
URTI). While symptoms may be the same as theheadache. You might feel this as pressure at the side
abovementioned it will need to be treated in aof your head and in your nose. It will not go away
different manner. One good thing is that URTI'scompletely until your sinus infection is cleared up, but
usually heal by themselves.it can be relieved temporarily by taking either
Therefore, do not be concerned if you have a mildacetaminophen or over-the-counter nasal sprays.
version of the following symptoms. However, chronicFeeling tired or fatigued. Generally children show this
symptoms may be evidence of a full-blown infection,symptom more often than adults but it indicates that
for which you should see your doctor for antibiotics.an infection is present. A child will have less energy
If your nose runs while producing a clear discharge.for everyday activities, especially when he/she has
The easiest way to determine if you have thistaken drugs for cold or sinus infections. Anyone with
infection is to think check what your nose is doing.a this infection will want to rest and take it easy. If
When someone has a sinus infection their nose willyou think you have a sinus infection, it's important to
run but it will be a clear discharge. Over time therest so that you can get better.
mucus may become yellow or green in color. It willThese signs may last for about a week before
seem like you are constantly blowing your nose.fading as the infection clears of the sinuses, no
A hot spell, like a fever. There are many infectionsmatter the age. If sinus infection symptoms last over
that can present with a fever so a fever alone is nota week, or you have other health related concerns,
enough to diagnose an illness. Is the fever 102see your health care provider immediately.
degrees or higher? Go to a doctor if that is present