Decoding the Sniffles: Cold, Allergies, Sinus Infection or COVID?

Hey there, it’s Elisabeth, President and Head Nurse at Genexia Health, here to help you decode those sneezes and sniffles! With the rise in COVID cases (a few of my friends have recently been hit), allergy season (my husband and kids have been suffering), and kids heading back to school, it’s helpful to know what sets apart a cold, allergies, sinus infections, and COVID. Let’s dive into the key differences:

1. The Common Cold:

• Differentiator: Symptoms often start gradually and include a sore throat and sneezing.
• Duration: Typically lasts 3-7 days.
• Contagious: Yes, especially in the first few days.
• Treatment options: Rest, hydration, and over the counter cold remedies for symptom relief. Antibiotics are not effective against viral colds. 

2. Allergies:

• Differentiator: Symptoms usually include itchy or watery eyes, itchy throat and are often triggered by allergens like pollen or pet dander.
• Duration: Can persist as long as you’re exposed to allergens.
• Contagious: Not contagious; it’s your immune system reacting to allergens.
• Treatment options: Avoid allergens when possible, use antihistamines, decongestants, or allergy shots as prescribed by a healthcare provider. 

3. Sinus Infection (Sinusitis):

• Differentiator: Thick, colored mucus and facial pain/pressure are common.
• Duration: May last 7-10 days or longer.
• Contagious: Usually not contagious, but it can develop after a cold.
• Treatment options: Depending on the cause (viral or bacterial), treatments may include rest, hydration, saline nasal sprays/rinses, or antibiotics if a bacterial infection is present. 

Think you have a sinus infection and want to learn more? Click here to read our blog post “Understanding Sinus Infections: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments “

4. COVID

• Differentiator: Symptoms can include loss of taste or smell, shortness of breath, and high fever.
• Duration: Symptoms can persist for weeks, with severe cases requiring hospitalization.
• Contagious: Highly contagious, especially in the first few days.
• Treatment options: Isolate yourself to prevent spread, stay hydrated, and seek medical advice if needed. In some cases, antiviral medications may be necessary. 

Not Sure What You Have?

If you’re unsure about your symptoms, Genexia Health is here to help. We offer several testing options to rule out Strep Throat and/or Covid. Our nurse practitioners can provide expert guidance and prescribe antibiotics if needed for Allergy Managment and for Sinus Infections. Your health is our top priority.

Stay vigilant, maintain good hygiene, wear masks when necessary, and reach out to us with any health concerns. Together, we’ll navigate this sniffle season!