What is the difference between Common Cold, Sinusitis and Allergic Rhinitis

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Difference Between A Common Cold, Sinusitis And
Allergic Rhinitis Common Cold This is the most
common infection that affects us all - it causes
irritation and discomfort in your nose and
throat. It is a mild viral infection in the
upper respiratory tract that lasts anywhere from
7 to 10 days. But, it may last slightly longer
if you have weaker immunity or lifestyle factors
such as smoking or regular inhalation of harmful
pollutants. Symptoms usually appear between 1- 3
days after exposure to a virus. They include
runny or stuffy nose, cough, sore throat, slight
body aches or a mild headache and/or sneezing.
Most common cold cases improve without
treatment, usually within a week. But, using
over-the-counter (OTC) medication to reduce
fever, body aches, congestion, and cough can
help relieve symptoms. Sinusitis Sinuses are
four paired cavities in the head. They are
connected by narrow channels and are positioned
behind your nose, cheeks and forehead. The
lining of the sinuses inflates, preventing them
from draining properly. An individual typically
notices pain and nasal congestion. Like the
common cold, sinus infections may present with
discoloured discharge. Sinus infections are
generally temporary, but some are prone to
recurring sinus infections. If symptoms last 12
weeks and you face more than one episode, there
is a possibility that you have chronic
sinusitis. Sinusitis is treated in several ways,
depending on the severity of the case. Minor
sinus infections can be relieved by taking
decongestants or other over-the-counter cold and
allergy medications. But, in the case of chronic
sinusitis, focusing on the underlying condition
is essential. Allergic Rhinitis or Uncommon Cold
(AR) Allergic rhinitis or uncommon Cold (AR) is
a condition affecting the nose. It is often
mistaken for the common coldbecause of some
common symptoms such as sneezing and runny or
blocked nose. However, it is not just another
viral infection and it does not go away quickly.
Unlike the common cold, allergic rhinitis is not
caused by a virus. How can I tell if I have a
sinus infection, common cold or allergic rhinitis
? It can be difficult to tell the difference
between allergic rhinitis and common cold and
sinusitis. The common cold typically builds,
peaks, and slowly disappears, and lasts for a few
days to a week. Although, a cold has the
potential to transform into a sinus infection.