The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI) has issued warning regarding sinusitis. Doctors say that that if stuffy nose, headache and other symptoms of cold persist for more than two weeks, it may be sinusitis.

Sinusitis is generally initiated by a viral common cold affecting the nose. The viruses can spread to the sinuses and pave way for a secondary bacterial infection and subsequent acute sinusitis. Its major symptoms are a green or gray nasal discharge, foul tasting post-nasal drip, facial pain/pressure or light fever.

Dr. Anju Peters, Chair of the AAAAI Rhinosinusitis Committee said, “Early on, the symptoms of colds and sinusitis are similar. But if symptoms are worsening after 3-5 days, or if they are present for more than 10 days, then sinusitis is the likely culprit.”

Sinusitis can be treated either by non-surgical and surgical treatment. The majority of sinus surgeries are performed with endoscopy in the modern day scenario. It is also treated with antibiotics, and patients may use decongestants to relieve stuffiness.