Sinusitis
Sinusitis is a fairly common complication of a cold among adults and older children, occurring in an estimated 0.5-2% of cases.
Sinusitis is an infection of the small, air-filled cavities inside the cheekbones and forehead.
Symptoms of sinusitis include:
- pain and tenderness around your nose, eyes and forehead
- a blocked and runny nose
In most cases, the symptoms of sinusitis will resolve without the need for treatment.
Otitis media
Otitis media is a middle ear infection and a common complication of colds in children who are under five years old. It occurs in an estimated 20% of cases.
Symptoms of otitis media include:
- severe earache
- a high temperature (fever) of or above 38°C (100°F)
- flu-like symptoms, such as vomiting and lethargy (a lack of energy)
- some loss of hearing
Approximately 80% of cases of otitis media will resolve themselves without treatment, usually within three days.
Additional treatment is usually only required if your child has repeated episodes of otitis media.
