Difference Between A Common Cold, Sinusitis And Allergic Rhinitis
A stuffy and runny nose, congestion, and difficulty in breathing are bound to cause a roadblock in our daily activities. More than 100 viruses have the potential to cause a common cold, which spreads when infected people cough or sneeze virus-containing droplets into the air.
But the question at hand - how can you tell if you’re battling a common cold, sinusitis, or allergic rhinitis?
The symptoms generally associated with a common cold can overlap with sinusitis and allergic rhinitis, making it challenging to differentiate. Although these three infections may have similar symptoms, fundamentally, they are very different. Let's take a closer look at cold, allergic rhinitis and sinusitis and how they differ.
Common Cold
This is the most common infection that affects us all - it causes irritation and discomfort in your nose and throat. It is a mild viral infection in the upper respiratory tract that lasts anywhere from 7 to 10 days. But, it may last slightly longer if you have weaker immunity or lifestyle factors such as smoking or regular inhalation of harmful pollutants.
Symptoms usually appear between 1- 3 days after exposure to a virus. They include runny or stuffy nose, cough, sore throat, slight body aches or a mild headache and/or sneezing. Most common cold cases improve without treatment, usually within a week. But, using over-the-counter (OTC) medication to reduce fever, body aches, congestion, and cough can help relieve symptoms.
Sinusitis
Sinuses are four paired cavities in the head. They are connected by narrow channels and are positioned behind your nose, cheeks and forehead.
The lining of the sinuses inflates, preventing them from draining properly. An individual typically notices pain and nasal congestion. Like the common cold, sinus infections may present with discoloured discharge. Sinus infections are generally temporary, but some are prone to recurring sinus infections. If symptoms last 12 weeks and you face more than one episode, there is a possibility that you have chronic sinusitis.
Sinusitis is treated in several ways, depending on the severity of the case. Minor sinus infections can be relieved by taking decongestants or other over-the-counter cold and allergy medications. But, in the case of chronic sinusitis, focusing on the underlying condition is essential.
Allergic Rhinitis or Uncommon Cold (AR)
Allergic rhinitis or uncommon Cold (AR) is a condition affecting the nose. It is often mistaken for the common cold—because of some common symptoms such as sneezing and runny or blocked nose. However, it is not just another viral infection and it does not go away quickly. Unlike the common cold, allergic rhinitis is not caused by a virus.
AR or uncommon cold is caused by allergens which are usually harmless substances; however, when breathed in, they could trigger an allergic reaction in some people. An allergic reaction occurs when the person’s immune system overreacts to an allergen.
People with AR/uncommon cold are prone to symptoms such as runny nose, sneezing, congestion and sinus pressure. AR can also contribute to other problems such as asthma, sinus or ear conditions, or having trouble sleeping.
How can I tell if I have a sinus infection, common cold or allergic rhinitis ?
It can be difficult to tell the difference between allergic rhinitis and common cold and sinusitis. The common cold typically builds, peaks, and slowly disappears, and lasts for a few days to a week. Although, a cold has the potential to transform into a sinus infection.
Although, severe cases of common cold and allergic rhinitis usually can trigger sinusitis. If symptoms last longer than 10 days in the common cold, the virus infects sinus openings. This inflammation can prevent the flow of mucus, leading to sinus infection.
For many, sinusitis and allergic rhinitis are lifelong conditions. Fortunately, the symptoms of sinusitis and allergic rhinitis are usually controlled with a combination of medications and personal care. But, if your symptoms seem to worsen, consult with your doctor to identify potential triggers and develop a treatment plan.
References
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/common-cold/symptoms-causes/syc-20351605
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/8622-allergic-rhinitis-hay-fever
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