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Sounds like a common cold
- It started with a sore throat, sneezing or a runny nose.
- It is mild and getting better within 7 to 10 days.
- Others at home or work have had the same thing.
May be acute sinusitis
- Symptoms have lasted more than 10 days without improving.
- I got better, then suddenly worse again.
- Thick yellow or green discharge with pain or pressure in the cheeks, forehead or around the eyes.
- Fever along with facial pain.
May be chronic sinusitis (12 weeks or more)
- My nose has been blocked or congested for 12 weeks or more.
- Discharge from the front of the nose, or dripping down the back of the throat.
- Pressure or fullness in the face, worse when bending forward.
- My sense of smell is reduced or gone.
What usually helps a cold
Rest, warm fluids, steam and saline sprays or rinses. Antibiotics do not help a viral cold. Avoid decongestant nasal sprays for more than 3 to 5 days, as they can cause rebound blockage.
What your ticks may mean
Ticks only in the first section usually mean a cold that will settle. Ticks in the second section are worth a doctor's review. Two or more ticks in the third section, including blockage or discharge, can point to chronic sinusitis; an ENT can examine the inside of the nose with a small camera to look for the cause.
Get urgent medical care if
There is swelling or redness around the eye, double vision or change in vision, a severe headache, a stiff neck, confusion, or a high fever that will not come down.