Key signs: A "cold" that lasts MORE than 10 days, OR thick yellow-green nasal discharge for 3+ consecutive days, OR a cold that improves then suddenly gets worse with fever. Regular colds (nazla) clear up within a week - sinus infections don't.
Reassurance: Most sinus infections in children are NOT serious and respond well to treatment. Your child will be back to normal soon with proper care!
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Watch: How to Manage Fever in Babies at Home | Fever Symptoms, Medicines & When to See a Doctor
| Cause | How It Happens |
|---|---|
| Viral cold | Most common - virus causes inflammation that blocks sinuses |
| Bacterial infection | Develops after viral cold when bacteria grow in blocked sinuses |
| Allergies | Chronic inflammation leads to blockage |
| Enlarged adenoids | Block normal sinus drainage |
| Swimming | Water and chlorine can irritate sinuses |
| Pollutants | Smoke, dust, pollution cause irritation |
Important: Children get 6-8 colds per year. Not every cold becomes sinusitis!
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| Temperature | What It Means | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Below 100°F | Likely viral, mild | Home care |
| 100-101°F | Could be bacterial | Monitor, may need doctor |
| 101-102°F | Likely bacterial sinusitis | See doctor, may need antibiotics |
| Above 102°F | Active infection | Doctor visit same day |
| Above 103°F with eye swelling | Complication risk | EMERGENCY |
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| Child's 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 |
| 20-25 kg | - | 10-12.5 ml |
Frequency: Every 4-6 hours as needed. Maximum 4 doses in 24 hours.
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Antibiotics are prescribed when:
Common antibiotics prescribed:
IMPORTANT: Complete the full course even if child feels better!
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| Medication | Why to Avoid |
|---|---|
| OTC decongestants (Sinarest, Nasivion drops - beyond 3 days) | Not safe for young children, can cause rebound congestion |
| Cough suppressants | May make drainage worse |
| Antihistamines | Unless allergies are involved |
| Antibiotics without prescription | Inappropriate use causes resistance |
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Emergency signs (go to hospital):
See doctor same day if:
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Expert Insight: Dr. Sumitra reminds parents: 'Fever itself is not dangerous - it's your child's body fighting infection.'
A: Not necessarily. Green/yellow discharge is normal as a cold progresses - it means your body is fighting the infection. If green discharge continues beyond 10 days, or if child develops fever after day 5, consult a doctor.
A: A typical 2-year-old weighs 10-12 kg. Give Calpol Syrup (120mg/5ml) 5-6 ml every 4-6 hours as needed. Maximum 4 doses in 24 hours. See doctor if fever persists beyond 2-3 days.
A: Yes, bacterial sinus infections commonly cause fever. Viral sinusitis may have low-grade fever. If your child has fever above 102°F with thick nasal discharge, facial pain, and symptoms beyond 10 days, it's likely bacterial sinusitis needing antibiotics.
A: Recurrent sinusitis (3+ times/year) needs evaluation. Possible causes include enlarged adenoids, allergies, or anatomical issues. Consult an ENT specialist. In the meantime, focus on prevention - hand hygiene, saline use, treating allergies.
A: Nasivion (xylometazoline) can be used for 3-5 days MAXIMUM. Beyond that, it causes rebound congestion (nose becomes more blocked). Saline drops are safer for long-term use.
A: This is common when nose is blocked and child can't smell/taste food. Focus on hydration - warm soups, dal paani, warm milk. Offer small frequent meals. Clear the nose before meals using saline. If not eating for more than 24 hours, consult doctor.
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This article was reviewed by a pediatrician. Last updated: January 2025
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