Not every stuffy nose is sinusitis! A common cold (nazla-zukam) usually resolves in 7-10 days. If your child has a runny nose with thick yellow-green discharge lasting MORE than 10 days, OR a cold that seems to get better then gets worse again, it might be sinusitis.
Sinusitis sounds scary, but most cases in children are mild and treatable. With proper care, your child will feel better soon!
---
Watch: How to Manage Fever in Babies at Home | Fever Symptoms, Medicines & When to See a Doctor
Sinusitis is an infection or inflammation of the sinuses - the air-filled spaces around the nose and eyes. In children, sinuses are not fully developed until teenage years, which actually makes severe complications rare.
| Type | Duration | Common in Kids? |
|---|---|---|
| **Acute** | Less than 4 weeks | Most common |
| **Subacute** | 4-12 weeks | Less common |
| **Chronic** | More than 12 weeks | Rare in children |
| **Recurrent** | 3+ episodes per year | Needs evaluation |
---
| Symptom | Common Cold | Sinusitis |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 7-10 days | More than 10 days |
| Nasal discharge | Clear, then may turn colored | Thick yellow-green for 3+ days |
| Pattern | Gets better gradually | Gets worse OR improves then worsens |
| Fever | Usually first 2-3 days only | Can persist or return |
| Headache | Mild | More prominent, facial pain |
| Cough | Present | Often worse at night |
| Bad breath | Usually not | Often present |
---
---
| Fever Level | Interpretation | Action |
|---|---|---|
| No fever with cold >10 days | Likely mild sinusitis | Home care, monitor |
| Low fever (99-101°F) | Bacterial infection possible | May need antibiotics |
| Moderate fever (101-102°F) | Bacterial sinusitis likely | Consult doctor |
| High fever (>102°F) | Active infection | See doctor same day |
| Fever with eye swelling | Possible complication | URGENT - go to hospital |
---
| Weight | Calpol Drops (100mg/ml) | Calpol Syrup (120mg/5ml) |
|---|---|---|
| 5-6 kg | 0.5-0.6 ml | 2.5 ml |
| 6-8 kg | 0.6-0.8 ml | 3-4 ml |
| 8-10 kg | 0.8-1 ml | 4-5 ml |
| 10-12 kg | - | 5-6 ml |
| 12-15 kg | - | 6-7.5 ml |
| 15-20 kg | - | 7.5-10 ml |
Give every 4-6 hours as needed. Max 4 doses in 24 hours.
---
---
Antibiotics are needed if:
Common antibiotics: Amoxicillin (Mox), Amoxicillin-clavulanate (Augmentin)
Duration: Usually 10-14 days - complete the course!
| Medication | Purpose | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Paracetamol (Calpol) | Fever and pain | As per weight |
| Saline spray | Clear congestion | Safe, use freely |
| Antihistamines | If allergies involved | Doctor's prescription |
| Nasal steroid spray | Chronic cases | Doctor's prescription |
Avoid: OTC decongestants (Sinarest, etc.) in young children unless prescribed
---
---
---
Expert Insight: As our doctors say, 'Focus on how your child looks and acts, not just the number on the thermometer.'
A: If the runny nose has thick yellow-green discharge for more than 10 days, or if the cold seemed to get better then got worse, it could be sinusitis. Consult your pediatrician who may recommend antibiotics if needed.
A: OTC decongestants like Sinarest are NOT recommended for children under 6 years. Use saline drops instead. For older children, use only under doctor's guidance.
A: Not always! Viral sinusitis (most cases) doesn't need antibiotics. Antibiotics are needed only when symptoms persist beyond 10 days, are severe, or get worse after initial improvement. Let your doctor decide.
A: Give Calpol/paracetamol based on weight (see dosage chart above). Keep child hydrated, use saline nasal drops, and if fever persists or goes above 102°F, consult a doctor.
A: Acute sinusitis with proper treatment usually improves within 7-10 days, though some symptoms may linger for 2-3 weeks. If symptoms persist beyond 4 weeks, it may be becoming chronic.
A: Sinusitis itself is not contagious, but the viruses that cause it can spread. The underlying cold can be passed to others through coughing, sneezing, or touching contaminated surfaces.
---
This article was reviewed by a pediatrician. Last updated: January 2025
---
Need personalized guidance? Book a consultation with our pediatricians or explore our Care Plans for 24/7 expert support!
Access 50+ pediatricians on WhatsApp anytime. Get instant answers for all your baby health concerns.
Explore Care Plans
Understanding Noisy Breathing in Babies Quick Answer YES, noisy breathing in babies is usually NORMAL and not a cause ...
Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) Last updated: January 2026 Quick Answer My child has blisters on hands, feet, an...
Natural Home Remedies For Conjunctivitis (RED Eye) Quick Answer Good news - most cases of red eyes (aankh aana) in chi...
Types of Asthma Inhalers: A Complete Guide for Parents Quick Answer: There are two main types of asthma inhalers - reli...
Common Illnesses Kids Pick Up at School: Parent's Survival Guide Quick Answer: When kids start school, they inevitably ...
