What Other Symptoms Might You Have If You Have A Chronic Cough
Some symptoms can be more common and less likely to be serious, such as:
- A runny or stuffy nose.
- Post-nasal drip .
- Wheezing or shortness of breath.
- Heartburn.
- Sore throat or frequent throat clearing.
- Fever .
Other symptoms might be more serious, such as:
- Weight loss without any effort.
- Coughing up phlegm or blood.
- A hoarse voice that does not go away.
- A drenching overnight sweat.
Is It A Sinus Infection Or Cold
It can be difficult to tell the difference between a sinus infection and a cold as the symptoms can be very similar. Sinus infections often develop after a cold.
Sinusitis tends to last longer than a cold. Cold symptoms tend to get steadily worse, peaking at 35 days, then gradually get better. Sinus infections may last 10 days or more.
Some symptoms are more likely to be caused by sinusitis than a cold, including:
- swelling of the tissue in the nose
- green discharge from the nose
- a swollen or tender face
Unlike a cold, sinusitis can become chronic, which means it lasts longer than eight weeks. Chronic sinusitis causes swelling and irritation in the sinuses and usually develops after a person has had acute sinusitis. Sometimes the symptoms go away and then come back again.
Ongoing sinus symptoms even if they get better and then come back may indicate chronic sinusitis.
Sinus infections often go away on their own without medical treatment. There are, however, some things a person can do at home to relieve the bothersome symptoms.
To treat sinusitis symptoms with home remedies , try:
Avoid using decongestants on a long-term basis without talking to a doctor first because they can make congestion worse if used for too long.
- symptoms last longer than 10 days with no improvement
- fever lasts longer than 3-4 days
- the pain is very intense
- a person with a suspected sinus infection has a drugs that suppress the immune system, or organ failure
What Are The Symptoms Of A Sinus Infection Vs A Cold
While the symptoms may be similarrunny nose, headache, fatiguethere are some differences between the two conditions that can help you determine which one you have.
The main difference between the symptoms of a cold and sinus infection is how long they linger. Dr. Bhattacharyya says cold sufferers typically have a runny nose for two to three days, followed by a stuffy nose for two to three days. After that, most people begin to feel better. The CDC notes that the following symptoms are common with colds:
- Sneezing
- Mucus dripping down your throat
- Watery eyes
- Fever
Alternately, sinus infections usually last a bit longer than a common cold, and may hang around for seven days or more. A fever may also signal a bacterial infection. As Lord can attest, sinus infections are sometimes accompanied by a low-grade fever, while colds typically are not. Other viruses do cause fevers, however. Heres what the CDC says about the other symptoms of sinus infections:
- Runny nose
- Cough
- Bad breath
Another potentially helpful sign is the color of your nasal discharge. Unlike colds, which generally produce clear mucus, bacterial infections can produce greenish or yellow mucus. However, viruses sometimes produce colorful discharge as well, so this isnt considered a fail-safe test.
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How Do You Stop A Sinus Infection
If your sinus infection and post nasal drip with cough lasts between 7-10 days, you should be okay handling things at home on your own. To relieve post nasal drip and your cough, you can use antihistamines, nasal saline washes, and natural home remedies .
Be very careful with nasal sprays and certain decongestants, though. These treatment methods can end up thickening your mucus and could potentially make your post-nasal drip and cough worse.
That said, if you have a cough after sinus infection, this also shouldnt automatically trigger a doctors appointment. It can sometimes take up to a couple of weeks for a sinus infection cough to go away completely. As long as you notice your other symptoms clearing up , then you should be good to go.
How Severe Are The Symptoms
Most sinus infections go away on their own without severe symptoms or complications. If a sinus infection is caused by bacteria, you may need antibiotics.
Many cases of COVID-19 may be mild or moderate. The World Health Organization estimates that
Heres what to do next whether you think that you have a sinus infection or COVID-19.
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Sinus Infection Vs Cold: How To Tell The Difference
June 14, 2021 Written by: Michael Menachof Categories: Sinus
Dr. Menachof, MD, has specialized in conditions around the head, throat, ear, nose, neck and face for over 20 years, and was the first to bring sublingual allergy drops to Colorado in 2005. He has been recognized as a Fellow by multiple academies, named one of Americas Top Facial Plastic Surgeons continually since 2003 and is featured in multiple national publications.
When youre feeling sick, it can be tough to tell whether you are struggling with a sinus infection or simply have the common cold. The symptoms of these conditions can be very similar, but there are important differences between the two and they must be treated differently in order for you to find relief.
What Can I Do To Prevent Or Relieve The Symptoms Of Chronic Cough
To prevent chronic cough:
- Quit smoking, or don’t start smoking, since this is the most common reason for chronic cough.
- Avoid contact with anyone you know who may have bronchitis or pneumonia.
- Eat fruit and foods that contain fiber. Research suggests that a combination of fiber and flavonoids found in fruit may prevent chronic cough.
To relieve the symptoms of chronic cough:
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Causes Of Sinus Infection
There may be several causes of sinus infection. Typically a sinus infection starts from a cold, and develops because the mucus in your sinus does not drain properly and causes an infection in your sinus cavity. Most sinus infections are viral but some are bacterial.
Allergies can also cause a sinus infection. More severe causes included a deviated septum, nasal bone spur, or polyps in your nose. If you have recurrent acute sinusitis, your doctor may run additional tests to rule out a different medical condition causing your sinus infections.
Tips To Help You Feel Better Now
With respiratory symptoms, there are some things you can do to start getting some immediate relief, according to Dr. Buzzard.
The first tip I have is to take make sure you are getting an adequate amount of rest, as well as fluids. Secondly, over-the-counter medicines for cold symptoms can be helpful for symptoms like sore throat, fever, congestion, and cough. Check with your doctor if you have questions about what is safe and effective, says Dr. Buzzard. My third tip is if you are smoking, stop. Smoking will make your symptoms worse and can increase your risk of secondary infections like sinus infections or pneumonia. Finally, if you are getting worse or youve gone longer than a week without feeling better, come in to see us.
If you think you might have a COVID-19, a sinus infection, or another respiratory illness, a visit to one of Physicians Immediate Cares convenient locations in Illinois, Indianaand Wisconsin couldprovide the relief you need. In addition to caring physicians and staff who have been serving patients for more than 30 years, Physicians Immediate Care also offers evening and weekend hours, and no appointment is needed.
If you have any symptoms of COVID-19, please let us know before you arrive so we can keep you safe with our enhanced health and safety protocols.
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What Tests Will Be Used To Diagnose The Cause Of Chronic Cough
Diagnosing the cause of chronic cough can be difficult. This may be because many patients have more than one thing causing their cough. Therefore, many types of tests are used to diagnose the causes. The other symptoms will help determine which tests are needed.
For both adults and children, but especially for children, the answers to questions your healthcare provider asks will provide clues about the cause. They’ll ask questions such as when the coughing started, what seems to trigger the cough, and questions about the nature of the cough . The answers will suggest what kind of testing is needed.
Lab tests help determine if bacteria are present and are causing the cough. The most common of these involve blood tests. Others might test mucus that you cough up.
Lung function tests are tests that tell your healthcare provider how well your lungs are working. They are also called pulmonary function tests. These measure your breathing patterns from inhaling to exhaling. Spirometry is one type of lung function testing, while others are lung volume testing, gas diffusion studies and the six-minute walk test.
Imaging tests include X-rays, CT and MRI scans, ultrasound and nuclear testing. X-rays reveal the more common reasons for chronic cough, such as a build-up of fluids in the areas that help breathing, as well as lung diseases and lung cancer. All of the other imaging tests provide more detailed views of areas of the body that affect breathing.
When Should I Call The Doctor About My Cold Or The Flu
If a person develops troublebreathing, has a severe sore throat, has a cough that produces green-colored mucus, has chest pain, or develops a high and persistent fever, that person should be seen by their doctor. If you suspect you have the flu and are pregnant, are over 50, have a weakened immune system for any reason, or have ongoing medical problems such as diabetes, you are at higher risk for developing complications due to the flu and should contact your physician. If you have a child under 2 years of age or have a friend or relative living in long-term care facility with flu-like symptoms, their doctors need to be notified.
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Treatment For Sinusitis And Bronchitis
You can treat a sinus infection at home with a combination of medications such as antihistamines, nasal decongestant sprays, topical nasal corticosteroid sprays, and nasal saline washes. All of these methods can help address the inflammation and swelling that occur in the nasal passages and sinus openings due to a sinus infection.
However, topical nasal decongestants should only be used for three or four days, as overuse can result in dependency. Likewise, over-the-counter nasal decongestants and antihistamines may contain drying agents that can thicken mucus and should be used sparingly and with caution so as to not cause additional congestion.
Home remedies for bronchitis include increasing the amount of fluid you consume and using a cool-mist humidifier. Drinking more fluids can help to thin the mucus in the lungs. Using a humidifier can soothe irritated airways.
The most common medications that can assist with bronchitis are bronchodilators and decongestants.
Bronchodilators can provide relief by opening tight air passages in the lungs. If you experience any wheezing, a doctor may prescribe one for you. Decongestants may relieve some of the symptoms associated with bronchitis. Because bronchitis is generally caused by a virus, antibiotics are not helpful in its treatment.
When To Seek Medical Treatment For Sinusitis And Bronchitis
When it comes to getting over a sinus infection or bronchitis, patience and time are usually the best remedies. Because most infections are viral, prescription antibiotics arent always an effective treatment option and taking them can be dangerous and lead to problems related to antibiotic resistance. In most cases, infections related to sinusitis and bronchitis will resolve on their own.
Within a week of getting sick, symptoms related to sinusitis or bronchitis should start to improve. If you dont start feeling better or feel worse, its a good idea to reach out to a medical provider who can provide guidance about managing symptoms and also about your treatment options.
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Sinus Pain And Pressure
Fluid trapped in the sinuses can fill the sinus cavities, causing intense pain and pressure. The sinuses may be sensitive to the touch. A person may have an urge to sneeze but be unable to do so.
The pain can be in the cheeks, around the eyes and nose, or in the forehead because these areas are where the sinuses are. Bending over may make the pain worse.
Sometimes, the pressure and pain are intense enough to interfere with sleep.
Sinusitis may also cause the tissue in the nose to swell.
Start Treating Your Symptoms Right Away
Since viruses cant be cured, treating colds is primarily aimed at improving symptoms.
Its important to remember that with colds and other viruses, taking an antibiotic wont help you feel better any faster, says Dr. Woodard. In fact, taking an antibiotic unnecessarily can do more harm than good.
The overuse of antibiotics can lead to antibiotic resistance, which can make subsequent infections more difficult to treat.
Get plenty of rest, stay hydrated and rinse out your sinuses with saline irrigation, which can help thin mucous and flush it from your nasal cavity, he says.
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Southern Cross Medical Library
The purpose of the Southern Cross Medical Library is to provide information of a general nature to help you better understand certain medical conditions. Always seek specific medical advice for treatment appropriate to you. This information is not intended to relate specifically to insurance or healthcare services provided by Southern Cross. For more articles go to the Medical Library index page.
Should I See A Doctor When Sinus Drainage Causes A Cough
Sinus drainage accompanied by coughing is very irritating, but it may go away on its own. If it does not, if it stays around for weeks, this may be a sign of a persistent condition that needs medical attention.
Also, if you bring up phlegm, if you cant sleep because of the symptoms, or its affecting your studies or job, its a good idea to see a doctor. If you bring up blood, let a doctor know right away. The doctor will be able to figure out the precise cause of your post-nasal drip and UACS, and to recommend an effective treatment.
References
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Throat Irritation And Cough
As discharge from your sinuses drains down the back of your throat, it can cause irritation, especially over a long period of time. This can lead to a persistent and annoying cough, which can be worse when lying down to sleep or first thing in the morning after getting up from bed.
It can also make sleeping difficult. Sleeping upright or with your head elevated can help reduce the frequency and intensity of your coughing.
Why Do I Have So Much Mucus In My Sinus
Sinus congestion occurs when the mucous membranes become irritated or infected and start to excrete more mucus than normal, filling those hollow areas with thick mucus. Anything that irritates those mucous membranes can cause them to produce excessive mucus, including these health conditions: A bacterial infection.
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How Is Sinus Infection Diagnosed
Diagnosis depends on symptoms and requires an examination of the throat, nose and sinuses. Your allergist will look for:
- Redness
- Discolored nasal discharge
- Bad Breath
If your sinus infection lasts longer than eight weeks, or if standard antibiotic treatment is not working, a sinus CT scan may help your allergist diagnose the problem. Your allergist may examine your nose or sinus openings. The exam uses a long, thin, flexible tube with a tiny camera and a light at one end that is inserted through the nose. It is not painful. Your allergist may give you a light anesthetic nasal spray to make you more comfortable.
Mucus cultures: If your sinus infection is chronic or has not improved after several rounds of antibiotics, a mucus culture may help to determine what is causing the infection. Most mucus samples are taken from the nose. However, it is sometimes necessary to get mucus directly from the sinuses.
Knowing what kind of bacteria is causing the infection can lead to more effective antibiotic therapy. A fungus could also cause your sinus infection. Confirming the presence of fungus is important. Fungal sinus infection needs to be treated with antifungal agents, rather than antibiotics. In addition, some forms of fungal sinus infection allergic fungal sinus infection, for example do not respond to antifungal agents and often require the use of oral steroids.
Postnasal Drip: What You Need To Know
Most of the time, you dont notice mucus production in the nose and sinuses because it drips into the back of the mouth, where it mixes with saliva and then moves down the back of the throat. This function is known as postnasal drip. You are swallowing this mucus throughout the day without a conscious thought about what is happening.
This process becomes more noticeable when the mucus production is increased. For example, a bacterial or viral infection can cause a runny nose and sinus congestion. As a result, the mucous might start to bother you because of the amount and thickness of it. Common symptoms can occur, including coughing, a sore throat, or frequently clearing the throat.
Postnasal drip is caused by a variety of health conditions that trigger increased mucus production:
- Colds
- Foods
- Environmental irritants
Another reason that you might notice postnasal drip is because the mucus isnt being cleared away properly. Your body might be producing the right amount of mucus, but then it builds up because of a blockage or other health concern that is interfering with the normal function.
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