Common Cold vs. Sinus Infection in Kids: How to Tell the Difference?

Expert Insights from the Best ENT Clinic in Dubai

Does your child have a stuffy nose, cough, and congestion? It could be a common cold—or it might be a sinus infection (sinusitis). Both conditions share similar symptoms, making it difficult for parents to know when their child needs medical attention.

At the Best ENT Clinic in Dubai, our pediatric ENT consultant helps parents identify the difference between a cold and a sinus infection to ensure the right treatment.

Let’s explore how to tell them apart, symptoms to watch for, and when to seek ENT care.

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What is the Common Cold?

The common cold is a viral infection that affects the upper respiratory tract, including the nose and throat. It usually goes away on its own within 7–10 days without antibiotics.

Symptoms of the Common Cold in Kids:

✔️ Runny or stuffy nose (clear mucus that may turn yellow/green)
✔️ Mild fever (below 38.5°C or 101°F)
✔️ Sneezing & mild cough
✔️ Sore throat & mild headache
✔️ Watery eyes & fatigue

How Long Does a Cold Last?

⏳ 5 to 10 days (Improves gradually)

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What is a Sinus Infection (Sinusitis)?

A sinus infection occurs when the sinuses (air-filled spaces in the face) become inflamed and blocked, often due to a bacterial infection. It can develop after a cold or allergies.

Symptoms of Sinus Infection in Kids:

❗ Thick yellow/green nasal discharge lasting more than 10 days
❗ High fever (above 38.5°C or 101°F)
❗ Severe headache or facial pain around the nose, eyes, or forehead
❗ Persistent cough (worse at night)
❗ Bad breath (halitosis)
❗ Swelling or tenderness around the eyes and cheeks

How Long Does a Sinus Infection Last?

⏳ More than 10 days, often worsening after initial improvement

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Key Differences: Cold vs. Sinus Infection

Symptom	Common Cold	Sinus Infection
Nasal Discharge	Clear or turns yellow/green	Thick yellow/green for over 10 days
Fever	Mild, below 38.5°C	High, above 38.5°C
Facial Pain	No or mild pressure	Severe pressure around eyes & forehead
Cough	Mild, due to throat irritation	Persistent, worse at night
Bad Breath	No	Yes
Duration	5–10 days	More than 10 days

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When Should You See an ENT Specialist or Consultant?

📌 Your child has nasal congestion, fever, and facial pain for more than 10 days
📌 Cold symptoms get worse after initial improvement (could indicate bacterial infection)
📌 Severe headache or swelling around the eyes
📌 Your child has frequent sinus infections (more than 3 per year)
📌 No improvement after taking antibiotics prescribed by a doctor

If your child has these symptoms, book an appointment with our best pediatric ENT consultant in Dubai today!

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Treatment for Common Cold & Sinus Infection

1. Home Remedies for the Common Cold

✔️ Encourage hydration (water, warm soups, herbal teas)
✔️ Use saline nasal sprays to clear mucus
✔️ Give honey (for kids over 1 year) to soothe a cough
✔️ Use a humidifier to keep the air moist
✔️ Ensure proper rest & sleep

2. Treatment for Sinus Infection

For mild sinus infections, similar home remedies can help. However, if the infection is bacterial, an ENT specialist may prescribe:
✔️ Antibiotics (for severe bacterial sinusitis)
✔️ Nasal corticosteroids to reduce inflammation
✔️ Saline irrigation (nasal wash) to clear sinuses
✔️ Antihistamines (if allergies contribute to sinusitis)

3. When Surgery is Needed

For children with chronic sinusitis (lasting more than 12 weeks) or recurrent sinus infections, surgery may be recommended. The most common procedure is:

🔹 Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS): A minimally invasive procedure to remove sinus blockages and improve airflow.

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How to Prevent Sinus Infections in Kids

✅ Teach proper handwashing to prevent colds
✅ Use a humidifier in dry weather
✅ Keep your child’s allergies under control
✅ Limit exposure to secondhand smoke & pollutants
✅ Encourage a balanced diet & hydration for a strong immune system

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Why Choose the ENT Clinic of Excellence in Dubai for Your Child’s Sinus Health?

🏥 Top Pediatric ENT Consultant – Experienced in treating colds & sinus infections in children
🔬 Advanced Diagnostic Tools – High-precision nasal endoscopy & imaging for accurate diagnosis
🩺 Comprehensive Treatment Options – From medications to minimally invasive sinus surgery
📍 Convenient Location in Dubai – Trusted by parents across the UAE

📞 Call us today or book a consultation to ensure your child’s respiratory health!