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As the Detroit Metro area’s sinus specialists, Dr. Pinnock and his team at Detroit Sinus Center speak to patients routinely who are unsure if they have colds, allergies, or sinus problems. It is understandable that people are confused as to what is causing their symptoms as all of these conditions have one thing in common – they all produce respiratory problems.

The key to knowing whether you have a cold, allergies, or a sinus problem is to recognize the symptoms you’re experiencing, as each condition’s symptoms are unique.

Cold Symptoms

Symptoms of a common cold typically begin 2 to 3 days after infection and often include:

• Runny nose
• Trouble breathing freely through the nose
• Swollen sinus membranes
• Sneezing, sore throat, coughing and headaches
• Fever

Allergy Symptoms

While cold symptoms usually run their course over a two-week period, allergy symptoms can linger. Allergies are the immune system’s reactions to substances such as dust, pet dander and pollen. Allergy symptoms include:

• Sneezing
• Red, itching and watery eyes
• Repeated ear infections
• Repeated sinus infections
• Loss of smell or taste
• Hoarseness, coughing or wheezing

Sinusitis Symptoms

Sinusitis is a relatively common condition that affects millions of Americans each year and is characterized by the following symptoms:

• Swelling or inflammation of the tissues lining the sinuses
• Nasal congestion and/or discharge
• Irritated throat and coughing
• Postnasal drip
• Headaches
• Facial tenderness or pain
• Lack of energy
• Loss of smell
• Bad breath

Contact Detroit Sinus Center

If you are suffering from symptoms that may indicate you have a sinus problem, we encourage you to schedule an appointment with us today. Detroit Sinus Center provides comprehensive sinus treatments in our comfortable and relaxing offices. We can provide you with the relief you need by alleviating the symptoms you’re experiencing with advanced treatment options for sinusitis. We extend our sinus treatment services to patients living throughout the Detroit area including Southfield and Allen Park.