Dr Sreelekha Ray's ENT & Head-Neck Cancer Clinic

ALL BLOCKED NOSE IS NOT 'SINUS' How to differentiate between Common cold vs Allergic rhinitis vs Sinusitis: 1. A common cold is caused by a virus. It gives a blocked nose, runny nose that may turn thick, occasional sneezing, and sometimes fever. It usually settles in 7–10 days. 2. Allergic rhinitis happens due to dust mites, pollen or animal dander. You may feel a persistently blocked nose, clear watery discharge, frequent sneezing in bursts, and itchy nose or eyes. Fever is rare. 3. Sinuses are hollow spaces within the bones of the face. Sinusitis develops when the sinuses get blocked or infected. It can follow a cold or allergy. You can have blocked nose with facial pain/pressure, thick yellow or green discharge, reduced smell, and often fever. Unlike a cold, sinusitis lasts longer and may worsen when you bend forward. In short: 1. Cold = short‑lived 2. Allergy = long‑lasting with sneezing & itch 3. Sinusitis = painful with thick discharge & pressure When to See an ENT specialist: 1. Blocked nose or runny nose lasting more than 10 days 2. Facial pain/pressure that worsens when bending forward 3. Frequent sneezing, itchy nose or eyes disturbing sleep 4. Repeated sinus infections 5. One-sided nose block 6. Any bleeding from the nose 7. Any swelling of the eye or face Timely ENT care prevents complications, improves sleep, restores easy breathing, and helps you enjoy a healthier, more active lifestyle. 4 hours ago