As the cold winter months linger through the new
year, your child may be showing symptoms of a common cold and complain
of a stuffy nose. However, some parents do not realize that what they
think is a common cold can actually be sinusitis.
A cold usually lasts for 7 to 14 days and will fade away
without treatment. But sinusitis can be more stubborn.
“If your child’s symptoms also include a high fever,
headaches, colored discharge from the nose, and persists for more than
10 days, the common cold may have inflamed the sinuses and created
sinusitis,” says Daniel Bruegger, MD, chief of Otorhinolaryngology (Pediatric ENT) at Children’s Mercy
Hospitals and Clinics.
Viruses that cause colds can inflame the sinuses, which are
the air spaces found in the facial bones around the nose. Dr. Bruegger
suggests using a decongestant or taking ibuprofen to help reduce the
discomfort in the facial area while waiting to see your doctor.
Symptoms may worsen in children with asthma and it is
important to keep in close touch with your doctor if you suspect your
child has sinusitis.
Dr. Bruegger gives the following advice to help prevent
further sinus problems in your child:
Encourage your child to cover her nose and mouth when she sneezes
or coughs.
Do not share food or utensils.
Use a humidifier to keep home humidity at 45 to 50 percent.
Remember to avoid cigarette smoke and other air pollutants no
matter what the situation.
