Advil Tablets, Gel Caplets, Liqui-Gels and Liqui-Gels minis contain an active ingredient, called ibuprofen, which temporarily reduces fever, as well as relieves minor aches and pains due to the common cold. Show
If you have additional symptoms, you can also consider using Advil Cold & Sinus and Advil Sinus Congestion & Pain products for additional relief. These products contain ibuprofen plus a nasal decongestant to provide relief for symptoms including: headache, fever, minor body aches and pains, sinus pressure, and nasal congestion. For further questions concerning your use of Advil products, please speak with a healthcare provider. If your symptoms continue to persist or get worse, please contact a physician immediately. Selected from data included with permission and copyrighted by First Databank, Inc. This copyrighted material has been downloaded from a licensed data provider and is not for distribution, except as may be authorized by the applicable terms of use. CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment. To drain your sinuses, dampen a washcloth with hot water and place it over your nose to help loosen your nasal secretions. You can also try taking a hot shower and breathing in the steam for 3 to 5 minutes. Alternatively, try drinking or eating hot foods, like herbal tea or soup, to open up your sinuses. Additionally, turn on a humidifier while you sleep to increase the moisture in the air, which will help keep your sinuses open. For tips from our Medical co-author on how to unblock your sinuses using over-the-counter medication, read on! Did this summary help you?YesNo Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 1,001,645 times. In most cases, when you have a runny nose, headache, and persistent cough, you have a common cold. As the name suggests, this illness is so contagious and widespread that it’s the single most common cause of doctor visits in the United States. On average, adults have two to four colds a year, with infants and young children experiencing six to eight. While sinus infections (also known as “sinusitis”) share many symptoms with the common cold and can be a complication of it, there are some key differences. Occurring in an estimated 11.6% of American adults, these infections of the nasal passages tend to be more severe. And unlike the common cold, sinus infections can be of both viral and bacterial origin. 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. Verywell / Theresa Chiechi Sinus Infection vs. ColdDistinguishing between the common cold and sinus infections can be challenging for patients and healthcare providers alike. The two conditions share many characteristics, and in some cases, sinus infections arise as a complication of colds. However, there are several key differences:
Sinus InfectionPrimarily, sinus infection arises when the sinuses—the passages connecting the mouth, ears, and eyes—are exposed to a virus, bacteria or fungi. This causes an inflammation of the tissues, preventing mucus from exiting the body, and making the sinuses a kind of breeding-ground for germs. The most common risk factors for sinus infections include:
While many sinus infections are complications of a common cold due to a virus, sometimes bacteria and fungi can cause a superimposed infection that is more difficult for the body’s immune system to fight off. Basically, when your immune system is already fighting off a disease, it’s easier for other pathogens to infect. Bacterial and fungal sinus infections often arise this way. Chronic Sinus InfectionCases of sinus infection that last longer than 12 weeks are considered chronic. These cases may require additional treatment or surgery. SymptomsThe primary symptoms of sinus infections include:
TreatmentIn a majority of cases, sinus infections resolve as your body’s immune system attacks and destroys the infecting pathogens. Proper diagnosis is essential, and the doctor will need to know whether you have viral or bacterial sinusitis. Whereas antibiotics will not work for viral cases, they may be prescribed in bacterial cases. Often the focus of treatment involves managing the severity of symptoms as natural immunity takes over. For milder cases and those within the first 10 days, over the counter medications and at-home treatments include:
What About Decongestants?Decongestants are not recommended for adults or children with acute sinusitis and should not be used for more than three to five days in order to prevent rebound congestion. If symptoms persist or worsen after 10 days, doctors may prescribe:
Chronic sinus infection requires additional treatment focused on managing the severity of symptoms. Leukotriene antagonist drugs may be prescribed, and surgery may be considered in cases of a deviated septum. ColdThe common cold is a minor viral infection of the upper respiratory system that’s caused by a wide range of viruses. Rhinovirus is the most common pathogen, though there are over 200 others, of which certain coronaviruses and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) are more often seen. Colds are usually transmitted via coughed or exhaled droplets or infected surfaces. They are highly contagious, with younger children, seniors, those with respiratory conditions, and those with compromised immunity more prone. In most cases, they resolve without the need for medical care. You can expect to experience many colds throughout your life. SymptomsThe symptoms of the common cold arise within one to two days of infection. They usually resolve within seven to 10 days, with most feeling improvement after a couple days. Typical signs of the common cold include:
If the symptoms last longer than 10 days, it’s likely your cold has progressed to a complication or another illness is causing them. Fevers and ColdsWhile mild fever may accompany early onset of the cold and is common in children or infants with it, it’s not a typical feature of this illness in adults. TreatmentMost people don’t require special treatment for the common cold, and there’s no vaccine or outright cure. As with sinus infections, symptom management as your body develops immunity and fights off the infection is central to care. If you're sick, the following is recommended:
Additionally, some medications can help, many of which are also used for sinus infections:
DiagnosisMaking sure your symptoms are more than a cold, and could be those of sinus infection, can be critical for managing the condition. It’s also important for doctors to ascertain whether you’re experiencing a viral or bacterial infection as that can influence treatment. So how are respiratory diseases like this diagnosed? Here’s a quick breakdown:
When to Talk to Your DoctorWhile most colds—and even sinus infections—clear up on their own, it’s important to know when you need medical help. If you’re having symptoms, here’s when you should call a doctor:
SummaryDistinguishing between the common cold and sinus infections can be challenging for patients and healthcare providers. However, there are a few key differences. Colds are more common than sinus infections and symptoms tend to improve quicker. Sinusitis has a tendency to linger and cause sinus pressure, facial pain, and yellow or green mucus. Sinus infections can also cause loss of sense of taste or smell, higher fever, fatigue, and aches in the body. Thankfully, both of these conditions are treatable. Rest, relaxation, and fluids are great home remedies. Medicinal treatment methods vary depending on if the infection is caused by a virus or bacteria. A Word From VerywellWe've all experienced a cold before and it is no fun. While it's easy to try and work through it, symptoms of respiratory illnesses like the common cold and sinus infection should never be taken lightly. Taking the time to properly rest and recover will help ensure your illness doesn't progress into something worse. While the chances are much better that you won’t need medical attention, you shouldn’t hesitate seeking it out if or when you need it. Frequently Asked Questions
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