Does Your Child Have a Sinus Infection?

Could your child's lingering cold actually be a sinus infection? Your child's pediatricians at Clearwater and Westchase Pediatric Care can offer a diagnosis and provide treatments that will help your son or daughter feel much better.

Is it a cold or sinus infection?

it's not always easy to tell whether your child has a cold or sinus infection, particularly as sinus infections can occur after your son or daughter has had a cold or other viral infection.

Cold symptoms usually start to improve after seven to 10 days. If it's been 10 days or longer, and your child is still suffering, a sinus infection may be to blame.

What are the symptoms of sinus infections?

Common signs and symptoms of sinus infections include:

  • Stuffy or runny nose
  • Pain and pressure around the nose, eyes, and forehead
  • Post-nasal drip
  • Sore throat and coughing caused by post-nasal drip
  • Headaches
  • Green or yellow nasal discharge
  • Nausea
  • Pain or pressure in the ears
  • Swelling around the eyes
  • Pain in the upper teeth
  • Fatigue or disinterest in usual activities
  • Bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth
  • Loss of smell or taste
  • Fever

How are sinus infections treated?

Warm compresses and over-the-counter pain medications and decongestants can be helpful if your child has a sinus infection. If your child cooperates, you may also use a saline solution to rinse away mucus in the sinuses.

Since sinus symptoms can be caused by viruses, your pediatrician may not immediately recommend antibiotic treatment during your trip to the Clearwater or Westchase office. Antibiotics are only helpful if the symptoms are caused by a bacterial infection. If your child doesn't begin to feel better in a few days, antibiotics may be needed.

Stronger prescription decongestants or corticoid nasal sprays that decrease swelling and inflammation in the sinuses may also be prescribed in some cases.

Are you concerned about your child's sinus symptoms? Your child's pediatricians in Clearwater and Westchase, FL, can help. Call the Clearwater office at (727) 461-1543, and the Westchase office at (813) 818-1543.


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