The highly contagious variant continues to spread across the U.S. and many hospitals remain overcrowded with COVID patients. diarrhea. The charts below show which Omicron symptoms are most common and how they compare to prior variants. OMICRON variant has seen reduced problems with smell loss! Distinguishing between the common cold and sinus infections can be challenging for patients and healthcare providers alike. Is your cold really a sinus infection? Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. "Stress not only changes our ability to ward off illness but also decreases our ability to do things that keep us healthy, including getting plenty of sleep, eating well, and exercising. 1 Signs of Omicron iStock Walker says, "Omicron symptoms tend to be more concentrated on the upper respiratory tract. COVID-19 is most contagious in the 48 hours before symptoms start and the first five days of symptoms. At home this can be done by using a nasal saline solution or Neti pot. 6254a4d1642c605c54bf1cab17d50f1e, RELATED: How to Reduce Inflammation in the Body Fast. The omicron variant of the coronavirus has surged in the U.K. and is now dominant in the U.S. as well. Policy. Ohio State Wexner Medical Center. Chris Vincent, MD, is a licensed physician, surgeon, and board-certified doctor of family medicine. However, bacterial sinusitis cant be transmitted from person to person. "People that are vaccinated have a middle-of-the-way course. Your doctor might take a watchful waiting approach to see if your immune system can fight the infection. } Vaccination reduces your risk of COVID death 90% or more. Youll also want to wash your hair before bed after being outside and keep your windows closed when pollen counts are high. Both allergies and sinus infections can feel miserable. And theyre better than nothing, especially on a weekend if you dont have other choices, Dr. Ruff says. nausea or vomiting. Xu and her colleagues found that the risk of needing to go to the ER dropped from about 15% during the delta surge to 5% during the early omicron surge (about a 70% decrease) and the risk of being hospitalized dropped from 4% to 2% (or by 50%). A sinus infection, or sinusitis, occurs when your nasal passages get infected. Its also possible to have both conditions at the same time. It's also still not clear how much vaccines and prior infections are responsible for some of these early clinical impressions that omicron is causing a milder constellation of symptoms, says Dr. Daniel Griffin, who's chief of infectious diseases at ProHEALTH in New York and an instructor at Columbia University. Causes: The common cold arises due to infection from any of 200 viruses, with rhinovirus being the most common.While viral infections also cause most sinus infections, more severe types arise due to bacteria exposure. "Cough is still part of the symptoms," Moreno said. Therefore, if you are stressed, you may be at greater risk for contracting Omicron, as the body's defense system is not as robust. Its thought that the initial site of COVID-19 entry for most patients is the nasal passages. Pay close attention to symptoms to determine if cause is sinus infection or allergies. "Those individuals that are boosted, within five days, seven days of their onset of symptoms, their energy level comes back," he said. Thank you, {{form.email}}, for signing up. They might also choose delayed prescribing, where they prescribe an antibiotic for you but suggest that you wait a few days before taking it to see if the infection clears up on its own. Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. Most people were sick 6-9 days. "I've seen a lot more people reporting fatigue as one of their main symptoms," he said. You risk possible side effects and increase your chances of developing antibiotic resistance, which can make future infections harder to treat, says Dr. Sindwani. But experts say symptoms are more like colds and medics have urged the . The overlap in symptoms between COVID-19 and sinus infections (sinusitis) make it difficult to tell the two apart. While mild fever may accompany early onset of the cold and is common in children or infants with it, its not a typical feature of this illness in adults. Doctors try not to prescribe antibiotics unless they are definitely necessary because the over-prescription of antibiotics contributes to the rise of bacteria that is resistant to these drugs. Runny noses have been more common with COVID infections with the newer strains. If you suspect you have any of the symptoms mentioned here, get tested ASAP. If you have COVID-19, you may also experience nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, body aches, and loss of taste or smell. Get articles and stories about health, wellness, medicine, science and education delivered right to your inbox from the experts at Ohio State. You dont necessarily have to see your doctor for your allergies. Get the best food tips and diet advice every single day, Now, you'll have the best and latest food and healthy eating news right in your inboxevery Some of the most common symptoms include a sinus headache, runny nose, nasal congestion, sore throat, fatigue, and sneezing. A December study from the University of Hong Kong, which hasn't been peer-reviewed, found that Omicron replicated 70 times faster in the main airways, or bronchi, compared with Delta, but 10 times slower in the lung tissue. A sinus infection, or sinusitis, occurs when the air-filled pockets in the face, called sinuses, fill up with fluid, inflaming the sinus lining and preventing them from draining. Typically, the loss of sense of smell associated with a sinus infection is going to be accompanied by more significant symptoms such as facial pain/pressure. The rapid ones are getting better and better as far as accuracy goes. "It's mostly that runny nose, sore throat and nasal congestion," says Dr. John Vanchiere, the associate director of the Center for Emerging Viral Threats at LSU Health Shreveport. Omicron may also change the way the virus replicates or congregates in the body. However, there are a few key differences. Some of the most common symptoms include a sinus headache, runny nose, nasal congestion, sore throat, fatigue, and sneezing. Like the science and discovery news you find here? One of the key differences is the itchiness of your eyes and skin that can occur with allergies, as well as the thick, yellow or green nasal discharge thats notable with sinusitis. ", RELATED: Over 60? Were hopeful that most people with COVID-19 regain their smell back, but unfortunately many do not. Differences. Is it a cold or sinus infection? The most commonly-reported symptoms with the original Omicron variant were cough, fatigue, headache, congestion, and runny nose. Some photos and videos on this site were filmed prior to the COVID-19 outbreak or may not reflect current physical distancing and/or masking guidelines. Omicron vs. Allergy Symptoms Though COVID-19 and allergies are caused by significantly different thingsthe SARS-CoV-2 virus and airborne substances like pollen, respectivelythe two can. This is especially important as cases continue to rise. The primary symptoms of sinus infections include: In a majority of cases, sinus infections resolve as your bodys immune system attacks and destroys the infecting pathogens. Whats the main difference between sinus infection and COVID-19? "It's not like a little tickle in the throat. Suite 200, Atlanta 30342, Hearing Loss & Cognitive Decline Progression. How long are you most contagious after a COVID-19 infection? Stay home, rest and drink lots of fluids. Doctors studying Omicron's spread around the world have found new clues to the pattern of symptoms caused by the highly-mutated COVID-19 variant, which a growing number of reports suggest might . if( navigator.sendBeacon ) { The common cold is a minor viral infection of the upper respiratory system thats caused by a wide range of viruses. "They're young people that typically can push through things. U.S. Food & Drug Administration. COVID-19 is a contagious respiratory disease caused by infection with the virus SARS-CoV-2. For example, the virus that causes the common cold attacks the lining of your sinuses and causes them to swell up. It also details treatment options for both, why a proper diagnosis is important, and when to see your healthcare provider. They are highly contagious, with younger children, seniors, those with respiratory conditions, and those with compromised immunity more prone. For example, make sure you wash your hands often and try not to touch your face, nose, or eyes during cold/flu season. Emily is a health communication consultant, writer, and editor at EVR Creative, specializing in public health research and health promotion. You may be a good candidate for allergy shots, which can lessen the way your body reacts to allergens over time. While the chances are much better that you wont need medical attention, you shouldnt hesitate seeking it out if or when you need it. On Friday Sep 17th 2021 The FDA Advisory Panel made new recommendations about a third [], COVID and Hearing Health Most otolaryngologists will agree that hearing complaints are on the rise [], 2021 Advanced Ear, Nose and Throat Associates, PC, on Hearing Loss & Cognitive Decline Progression. Sinusitis happens when your sinuses thenormally air-filledpockets in your face become inflamedand blocked. But oddly about half of patients have no runny nose at this point. The information in this article is current as of the date listed, which means newer information may be available when you read this. But it has taken longer to untangle what, if anything, sets an omicron illness apart from that of its predecessors. For people who are at high risk for severe disease, such as older people or those with underlying health issues, the chance of being hospitalized is still quite significant. And among unvaccinated people, he says, an omicron infection can feel like the same unforgiving disease to him. A commuter masks up for a bus ride in Liverpool, England. This leads to mucus buildup. Most sinus infections are viral. While you may experience a fever, headache, and cough if you have COVID, you can also have these and other respiratory symptoms if you have another infection or condition. Loss of smell was also relatively rare among Omicron patients. Then check in with your doctor for a prescription and let him or her know if your condition worsens. In contrast, delta took about four days, and the original variant took more than five. every day. This can mean a cold or infection that's progressing. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. If you've been exposed to Omicron or think you have the virus, who explained symptoms to watch out for. What Is a Sinus Infection? A sinus infection is caused by inflammation of the sinuses and often follows a cold or allergy flare-up. Indeed, hospitalizations across the U.S. now stand at more than 126,000, and more than 1 in every 4 ICU beds is filled with a COVID-19 patient, according to the latest data from the Department of Health and Human Services. If symptoms dont go away after three months, youre considered to have a chronic sinus infection. What those hospital numbers don't tell us is what a typical case looks like. Use saline spray two to three times per day in each nostril. But it's very possible that doctors and patients are simply paying more attention to these symptoms than they did with earlier variants, says Dr. Scott Roberts, an assistant professor of infectious diseases at the Yale School of Medicine. What Every Woman Needs to Know, 6 Sore Throat Remedies That Actually Work. Suffering from a sinus infection? var xhr = new XMLHttpRequest(); Verywell Health's content is for informational and educational purposes only. Subscribe. By Mark Gurarie However, these conditions arent the same thing. Cases of sinus infection that last longer than 12 weeks are considered chronic. COVID-19 and sinus infections both involve the respiratory system. It is often patients who are susceptible to sinus infections that get them such as those patients who have gotten them before or patients who had ear infections as a child. This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. You cant, on the other hand, fully prevent allergies. Discover risk factors such as sinus infections. If this persists, smell training therapy can help, though sometimes (rarely) this loss is permanent. Learn about tips for relieving symptoms like inflammation, nasal congestion, and irritation. Even though early data shows that omicron is milder than delta, many hospitals are packed because the sheer number of people getting infected is enormous. A positive COVID-19 test means you need to isolate. However, if your symptoms worsen or last longer than two weeks, you should see your doctor for some relief. Typically, a sinus infection clears up within 2 to 3 weeks. Two main symptoms of sinus infections include congestion and pain or pressure in your face, nose, or ears. For example, if you have a sinus infection that is caused by allergies, your doctor may prescribe an allergy medicine. Most sinus infections are caused by viral infections, such as those that cause the common cold, including the rhinovirus and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). If a bacterial infection is suspected, youll probably need to take an antibiotic to clear up the infection and prevent further complications. Some common sinus infection treatments include: According to the CDC, antibiotics are usually not needed for viral sinus infections. Sinusitis generally lasts longer than a cold; while cases can resolve within 10 days, symptoms can last up to a month. We've all experienced a cold before and it is no fun. People have reported symptoms that vary, but are similar to signs of a common cold or flu. Mild, coldlike symptoms such as sore throats, sneezing, and runny noses were increasingly common. A bacterial sinus infection will often persist for seven to 10 days or longer, and may actually worsen after seven days. If youre not vaccinated for COVID-19 and the flu, do so right away to reduce your chances of getting sick and spreading these infections to others. Heres a quick breakdown: While most coldsand even sinus infectionsclear up on their own, its important to know when you need medical help. Along with falling temperatures and shorter days, sinus infections are a common part of winter. COVID-19 is only caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Also, ask your doctor about supplements such as vitamin C to help boost your immune system. And follow the public health fundamentals and help end this pandemic, no matter where you liveget vaccinated or boosted ASAP; if you live in an area with low vaccination rates, wear an N95 face mask, don't travel, social distance, avoid large crowds, don't go indoors with people you're not sheltering with (especially in bars), practice good hand hygiene, and to ensure your health don't miss these 101 Health Habits You Didn't Know Were Deadly. I recommend that everyone stock up.. Typical signs of the common cold include: If the symptoms last longer than 10 days, its likely your cold has progressed to a complication or another illness is causing them. Sinus infections, and related sinus pressure, can cause toothaches. This is why you may feel pain or pressure in your face. Occurring in an estimated 11.6% of American adults, these infections of the nasal passages tend to be more severe. They need rest. OMICRON Original: Had much less loss of smell, but mostly sinus congestion symtpoms. If you test negative but still have symptoms or were exposed, your doctor might want you to be tested again in a few days. Are you contagious before COVID-19 symptoms appear? "People that are unvaccinated go through a little bit of a longer and tougher course," Moreno said. Still, doctors have noticed a clear gradient of symptoms based on a person's vaccination status. Also, the more stressed you are, the more likely you may experience more severe symptoms or a longer duration of illness. The only way to know for sure is to see your doctor. A sinus infection (sinusitis) occurs when the lining of your sinuses becomes inflamed. Dr. Jorge Moreno said he's seen an influx of COVID-19 cases lately at his outpatient clinic in Connecticut. If you have respiratory symptoms, your doctor can use several tests to find out what is causing themfor example, if you have a sinus infection, COVID, or another condition. COVID-19 symptoms tend to have more fatigue, cough, shortness of breath and may have gastrointestinal symptoms, too. Runny nose, headache, fatigue, sneezing, and sore throat were the top five symptoms among people in the UK who recorded a positive COVID-19 test in the past few weeks. A sinus infection occurs when viruses or bacteria cause inflammation and fluid buildup inside your sinuses.