Sinus Infection, COVID-19 Or The Flu?

We’ve all been there: a stuffed-up head, clogged ears and drippy-faucet nose. It’s positively miserable – but is it a sinus infection or something else?

If you’re feeling unwell, it can be tricky to figure out if you’re sick with a sinus infection, a cold, the flu, COVID-19 or another virus. Our Franciscan Health experts suggest giving it a few days of rest to see if you feel better – and watch for hallmark symptoms.

“Because all of these symptoms can overlap – especially at the beginning of an illness – it can be hard to determine what’s causing you to feel this way,” said Margarita Marlin, MD, family physician with Franciscan Physician Network South 31 Family Care in Indianapolis. “But if you have a terrible cough, difficulty catching your breath or you’ve lost your sense of taste or smell, you should test for COVID.”

Flu-like symptoms have a few key differentiators – typically, you have a fever and body aches are hallmark symptoms. Your healthcare provider can swab your nasal passages to test for flu and COVID-19 and offer treatments accordingly if you test positive.

Sinus pressure, sinus headaches and thick mucus are indicators of a sinus infection – and typically aren’t accompanied by a cough.

“If your face and teeth hurt from your sinuses and you’re dealing with nasal congestion and runny nose, you might have a sinus infection,” said Dr. Marlin. “Contact your provider if your symptoms do not improve despite supportive care measures or if you need to seek medical advice.”

What Are Common Sinus Infection Symptoms? 

Sinus infections are caused either by a virus or bacteria – but cause similar annoying symptoms:

• Congestion
• Cough
• Ear ache
• Headache
• Facial pain and pressure
• Runny nose
• Sore throat
• Stuffy nose with thick mucus

If your sinus infection is viral, it will eventually clear your system, just like a cold. However, if your sinus infection lingers and you’re still feeling miserable days later, you could have a bacterial sinus infection. Your healthcare provider might prescribe antibiotics to help you fight off the infection.

At-Home Sinus Infection Care

While you’re waiting to feel better, our experts suggest a few at-home treatments to help alleviate your symptoms. At-home treatment options that can help include:

• Afrin or Flonase
• Anti-inflammatory medicines like Advil
• Neti pot/saline irrigation
• Over-the-counter medicines like Dayquil or Mucinex
• Rest
• Stay hydrated with lots of fluids

One last tip. Be proactive against illness to help keep your immune system in tip-top shape.

“Plan ahead and get vaccinated,” said Dr. Marlin. “The flu and COVID-19 vaccines can help reduce the severity of symptoms if you do get sick.”