What is an upper respiratory infection (common cold)?
Each of us has four paired cavities (spaces) in our head that communicate with the nose by narrow channels. These cavities (sinuses) produce a thin mucus that drains out of the channels of the nose.
An upper respiratory infection, also known as the common cold, is usually caused by a virus that infects the nose and throat. A cold may cause swelling in the sinuses, preventing the outflow of mucus.
Cold symptoms include nasal congestion, runny nose, post-nasal drip (drop-by-drop release of nasal fluid into the back of the throat), headache, achiness and fatigue. Cough and fever may also accompany these symptoms.
Cold symptoms usually build, peak, and slowly disappear. No treatment is necessary for a cold, but some medications can ease symptoms. For example, decongestants may decrease drainage and open the nasal passages. Analgesics may help with fever and headache. Cough medication may help as well. Colds will typically last from a few days to about a week.
What is sinusitis?
Sinusitis is an inflammation (swelling) of the sinuses. Normally, our sinuses are filled with air. When the sinuses become blocked and filled with fluid, bacteria can grow there and cause infection (sinusitis). Sinusitis is another name for a sinus infection, a common disorder.
What are the symptoms of a sinusitis?
Symptoms of sinusitis include:
- Thick, yellow, foul-smelling nasal discharge
- Pressure or pain around the face and eyes
- Headache (generally in the forehead area)
- Nasal obstruction
- Congestion
- Post-nasal drip
- A cold that won't go away
- Fever or cough (may or may not be present)
What conditions cause sinusitis?
Any condition that blocks off the sinus drainage channels can cause sinusitis. Such conditions include colds, allergic rhinitis (swelling of the moist lining of the nose), non-allergic rhinitis, and nasal polyps (small growths in the lining of the nose). Allergies can also lead to painful swelling and poor drainage of the sinuses. Sinusitis may occur after an upper respiratory infection or may result from anatomic problems such as a deviated septum (a shift in the nasal cavity). If not treated, a sinus infection can last for many weeks.
How is sinusitis diagnosed and treated?
Sinusitis is diagnosed after a physical examination and a medical history evaluation. Sometimes X-rays are performed to confirm the diagnosis. X-rays reveal trapped air and fluid and inflamed walls of the sinuses.
Sinusitis is first treated with medicines. The main goal of treatment is to stop the infection by unblocking the sinuses so they can drain. Medicines are prescribed that reduce swelling in the channels between the nose and the sinuses. Antibiotics are also typically recommended to eliminate the specific bacteria causing the infection.
Steam and hot showers may be recommended to loosen mucus. Nasal saline may also be recommended to wash mucus from the nose.
Sometimes, when sinusitis becomes chronic, surgical procedures may be needed to establish adequate drainage.
What is new in the surgical treatment of sinusitis?
An integrated computer and computed tomography (CT) scan system allows the surgeon to observe three views of the sinuses on a monitor. The views correlate and change with the position of a small probe moved within the nasal cavity or sinuses. This gives the surgeon constant feedback on the anatomy in and around the sinuses and the location of disease within the sinuses.
How do I know if my sinus condition requires the care of an ear, nose, and throat specialist?
Most routine sinus conditions are easily cared for by primary care physicians. If, however, you are bothered by persistent abnormal symptoms, recurring infections, or have abnormal X-ray findings or complications, a referral to a specialist is appropriate.
© Copyright 1995-2008 The Cleveland Clinic Foundation. All rights reserved
Can't find the health information you’re looking for?
Ask a Health Educator, Live!
Click here to go to the Department of Otolaryngology and Communicative Disorders Web site.
Know someone who could use this information?....send them this link.
This information is provided by the Cleveland Clinic and is not intended to replace the medical advice of your doctor or health care provider. Please consult your health care provider for advice about a specific medical condition. This document was last reviewed on: 4/21/2005
