A member asked:

How to know is cold or sinus infection and if need antibiotic ?

A doctor has provided 1 answer
Dr. James Burns answered

Specializes in Emergency Medicine

Good question: Upper respiratory symptoms, nasal congestion alternating with runny nose, facial pressure, mild sore throat are usually viral (a cold). Persistence beyond 7-10 days in a non smoker despite use of otc decongestants is where you think about enlisting the experience of your doctor. Most don't need antibiotics because symptoms clear in 7-10 days and are not bacterial.

Answered 12/11/2013

4.7k views

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Related Questions

A member asked:

Please tell me what anti-biotics are recommended for a sinus infection?

2 doctors weighed in across 2 answers