Miserable cold symptoms, such as a stuffy and runny nose, post nasal dripping in the back of the throat, headache, fatigue, cough and sometimes a low grade fever, usually run a 7-10 day course. Symptoms appear, peak, and fade over that period of time. No treatment is necessary, but there are medications that may ease the symptoms.

When does your cold become a sinus infection (sinusitis)? The cold symptoms may cause swelling in the sinus cavities, blocking the complete discharge of mucous. If you have facial sinus pain (around the face and eyes) and thick yellow or green mucous which persist after 7-10 days, you may want to see your doctor to determine if you have a sinus infection. Antibiotics are usually prescribed to treat the infection, and as always, rest and plenty of fluids.