Have you ever struggled to identify where the source of your head pain is coming from? Does it often seem like both your sinuses and ears are infected? This is, in no small part, because the ears and sinuses are connected and can pass infections back and forth.
When it comes to treating your infection, it’s important to know if it’s a sinus infection vs ear infection. While both can present similar symptoms, there are a few differences in how you can soothe symptoms and find relief.
Ready to learn which one you have? Read on to find out.
Sinus Infection Symptoms and Causes
Sinus infections result from a build-up of fluid in your pocket-like sinuses, which are above the eyes and on either side of the nose. You can end up with a sinus infection due to bad allergies, a cold, or other sinus issues that cause inflammation.
Symptoms of a sinus infection tend to include:
- Pressure behind the eyes and cheeks (near the sinuses)
- Yellow or green mucus
- Reduced sense of smell
- Congestion
- Coughing caused by post-nasal drip
- Bad breath
- Headaches and facial pain
- Fatigue
Untreated sinus infections may lead to low-grade fevers. Young adults and teens may also experience nausea as a secondary symptom.
Ear Infection Symptoms and Causes
Ear infections occur when viruses or bacteria make their way into the middle ear. Like sinus infections, they tend to result from inflammatory conditions like colds, flu, and allergies.
Symptoms of an ear infection include:
- Ear pain
- Difficulty hearing
- A feeling of “fullness” or liquid in the ear
- Ear drainage
- Sore throat
- Mild congestion
Children between the ages of six months and two years are most at risk of developing ear infections. When your child has an ear infection, you may notice them pulling at their ears. They may also show more signs of discomfort when laying down because of the way the fluid in the ear resettles.
Sinus Infection vs Ear Infection Treatment
At-home remedies can soothe the discomfort associated with both sinus and ear infections. For example, you can use humidifiers and saline sprays to loosen up mucus in the sinuses. You can place a warm, damp cloth over the ear to do the same.
For persistent symptoms or moderate to severe discomfort, talk to your doctor. Both sinus and ear infection treatment may involve antibiotics if the infection is bacterial. Doctors may also prescribe medicated ear drops or saline spray to speed up the recovery process.
Find Relief With the Right Treatment
As you can see, there are some notable overlaps between a sinus infection vs ear infection. However, sinus infections tend to cause more facial pain while ear infections cause ear pain. Knowing the difference can help you approach treatment the right way.
When it comes to managing your health, knowledge is power. We’re here to share the latest health news, at-home treatments that work, and signs that you need professional medical care. Take a look at our health content and stay in the know about your health.
Rachel Dixon works on Business, travel and features blogs at Daily Mid Time and Zobuz. She has passionate for travelling and cooking. Spending time with family as well as on internet to enhance her capabilities for well orientated content creation and blog writing.
