Headaches, sore throat, and a runny nose are a few of the symptoms the common cold shares with allergies and sinus infections. Because these sicknesses seem so similar, it can be confusing to determine how to treat them at home. Improper treatment may delay recovery, so ask the questions below at your next doctor’s visit. It will help get you back on your feet and fend off future sickness when you identify early symptoms.

3 Questions to Ask at Your Next Doctor’s Visit

1. How Do I Identify a Cold?

The cold virus is one of the simplest yet most confusing minor illnesses. While it rarely warrants a doctor’s visit, it can still be grueling to endure. Fatigue is one of a cold’s distinguishing factors and separates it from allergies or a sinus infection. When looking for common symptoms, such as a runny nose, headache, and sore throat, pay attention to your energy levels. This will help you determine you have a cold and which medication to take.

2. What Are the Symptoms of a Sinus Infection?

It’s easy to mix up a sinus infection with an allergic reaction because of the nasal congestion. However, there are many more details with a sinus infection. Nasal discharge will be green or yellow, and the drip can create pain in the teeth and bad breath as well. As you feel more congested, you may also experience headaches or fever. Most are safe to treat at home, but schedule an early doctor’s visit so they can confirm it’s a sinus infection.

3. How Are Allergies Different From Sinus Infections?

While allergic reactions have some nasal congestion, it’s secondary to a runny nose. With a sinus infection, the congestion takes prominence. With allergies, you’ll also never experience fever, which is a telltale sign you’re suffering from something else. Itchy eyes and sneezing are also unique to allergies, and it’s often easy to link the reaction to a recent encounter with an allergen.

The staff at Chewelah Associated Physicians proudly provides medical care to residents in Stevens County, WA. Their experienced health care team ranges from family doctors to OBGYN specialists, and they’re dedicated to keeping their patients happy and healthy. Call (509) 935-8711 today to schedule a doctor’s visit, and check out their website to learn more about their practice.