Most colds improve on their own within about 7 to 10 days. Sometimes, though, a cold can lead to a sinus infection in kids.
Paying attention to how symptoms change over time can help you decide when it makes sense to have a provider take a look. Here’s what you need to know.
What Is a Sinus Infection?
The sinuses are small spaces filled with air in the bones around the nose, cheeks, and forehead. A sinus infection, also called sinusitis, happens when those spaces become inflamed and swollen.
It often develops during or after an upper respiratory infection like a cold, when swelling and mucus make it harder for the sinuses to drain.
It’s also helpful to know that not every lingering cold is a bacterial sinus infection. Many cases are caused by viruses and can improve with time. (The common cold is caused by a virus, as are the flu and RSV.)
Common Sinus Infection Symptoms in Kids
Sinus infection symptoms in children can look a lot like a cold at first. Possible symptoms include:
- Nasal congestion
- Runny nose
- Daytime cough
- Postnasal drip
- Headache or facial discomfort
- Fever
- Bad breath
- Fatigue
- Symptoms that persist or worsen
Symptoms can vary with age. Younger children may not be able to describe facial pressure or a headache, so a lingering cough, congestion, or crankiness may be the main signs.
Older kids are more likely to mention pain or pressure around the eyes, cheeks, or forehead.
Cold or Sinus Infection? What Parents Should Watch For
When it comes to cold vs sinus infection in kids, the pattern of symptoms over time often matters more than any single symptom.
A medical provider may consider a child sinus infection more likely when there are:
- Symptoms lasting more than 10 days without improvement
- Symptoms that start to improve and then get worse again
- Severe symptoms, such as a high fever with thick nasal discharge for at least three days in a row
You may have heard that yellow or green mucus means a bacterial infection. That isn’t necessarily true. Mucus often changes color during an ordinary cold, so color alone isn’t a reliable sign. It’s a good symptom to keep track of, though, so be sure to tell your medical provider what you’ve noticed.
Do Sinus Infections Always Need Antibiotics?
Not every sinus infection needs antibiotics. Antibiotics only work against bacteria, and many sinus infections are viral or improve on their own.
In some cases, treatment may include antibiotics. In others, it may mean supportive care at home and watching for changes. A medical provider can evaluate your child and recommend treatment when appropriate.
When to Visit KidsStreet
When symptoms aren’t an emergency but also aren’t improving, urgent care for kids may help. Our pediatric urgent care services may be the right call for:
- Congestion that is not improving
- Persistent daytime cough
- Symptoms that worsen after initial improvement
- Fever with significant nasal symptoms
- Sinus discomfort
- Concerns about a possible sinus infection
You know your child best. If something doesn’t seem right, your concern is a good reason to have a provider take a look!
When to Seek Emergency Care
Go to the nearest emergency room or call 9-1-1 if your child has:
- Trouble breathing
- Severe headache with confusion or a stiff neck
- Significant swelling around the eye, especially with vision changes
- Extreme sleepiness or difficulty waking
- A seizure
- Symptoms that feel life-threatening
If you’re ever unsure whether something is an emergency, it’s always okay to choose the emergency room.
What to Expect at KidsStreet
Your visit starts with a conversation with your medical provider about your child’s symptoms, including how long they’ve lasted and whether or not they’ve changed.
This will be followed by an examination and, if needed, testing to help narrow down possible causes. From there, your provider will recommend treatment when appropriate and offer guidance for what you can do next.
Visit KidsStreet for Sinus Infection Symptoms
A cold that won’t quit can wear on kids and parents alike. If your child’s congestion or cough is hanging on longer than expected, our team is here to help.
KidsStreet is open late 7 days a week!
Register online to save your spot in line! Online registration is not an appointment, but it can help reduce in-clinic wait times by adding you to the queue before you arrive.