A severe cold can easily turn into a sinus infection and these infections do require the attention of a physician and the administration of antibiotics. Unfortunately, it can be difficult to tell if you actually have a sinus infection or not. If you are concerned about this, then keep reading to learn about some signs that you may have a sinus infection. 

Long Lasting Pain

Colds will typically pass within about seven to ten days. If you notice that your symptoms are lasting longer than this, then you likely have a sinus infection. Specifically, you should look out for pain that lasts longer than 10 days. Sinus infection pain can be quite severe and intense. The pain will likely be felt all around the sinus cavities and feel dull. Since sinus infections are rarely isolated, you also may feel discomfort in all the sinus cavities. These cavities are located along the cheeks, the bridge of the nose, and across your forehead. 

In some cases, pain may spread to the jaw, teeth, and neck. So, if pain worsens and does not seem to relent when you feel ill, then a sinus infection is more likely than a long lasting cold.

Swelling discomfort is also something you are likely to experience, especially when lying down. When you lie flat, the inflamed sinuses press against the soft tissues of your face and may cause some distress. If this happens, then make sure to prop your head up with pillows. This will allow your head to remain more upright so your sinuses can drain.

Opaque Discharge

Cold viruses often cause the production of opaque discharge from the nose. This discharge is a combination of mucus, white blood cells, and the dead virus. As your cold progresses, your discharge will appear more clear. If the discharge remains opaque and appears with a white or green tint four or more days after the start of your cold, then this is likely a sinus infection.

Discharge likely will give off a foul odor as well. The dead bacteria and white blood cells cause the odor and more and more of these cells will build and create the discharge as the sinus infection progresses. In other words, discharge will worsen in appearance, smell, volume, and color as time passes. 

Keep in mind that you should release as much of the infected discharge as possible to relieve pressure and pain, so use sinus rinses and blow your nose often. Of course, you should also see your physician for antibiotic medication.