When a Cold Lingers, It Might Be Sinusitis
- Jul 9
- 3 min read
Updated: 7 hours ago
When a Cold Lingers and Your Child Just Is Not Getting Better
It often starts like any common cold. A runny nose, a mild cough, maybe a low-grade fever. But then days pass. The congestion does not ease, the cough deepens, and your child just does not seem quite themselves. At Joyful Seeds Paediatric & Development Clinic in Bukit Timah, we help families understand when a simple cold has become something more, and how to help your child recover with gentle, effective care.
Sinusitis can be uncomfortable, especially for young children who may struggle to explain what they feel. With the right support, most children recover well and return to their bright, energetic selves.
What Is Sinusitis and Why It Happens
Sinusitis happens when the lining of the sinuses, the air-filled spaces in the face becomes inflamed and filled with mucus. In children, this often follows a cold or upper respiratory infection. The sinuses are still developing during early childhood, which can make them more prone to blockage and infection.
The most common cause is a viral infection. Occasionally, bacteria may play a role if symptoms persist or worsen. Sinusitis is not contagious, but the viruses that lead to it can be easily shared through coughs, sneezes or close contact.
Triggers and risk factors can include:
A recent cold that did not fully resolve
Allergies or nasal congestion
Exposure to environmental irritants such as smoke
Structural differences in the nasal passages
Weakened immune response or frequent infections
Understanding the pattern of your child’s symptoms is key to knowing when to seek help.
Signs That Your Child May Have Sinusitis
It can be tricky to tell when a cold becomes sinusitis. The signs often appear gradually. You might notice:
A blocked or runny nose that lasts longer than 10 days without improvement
Thick yellow or green nasal discharge
A persistent cough, especially at night
Complaints of facial pressure or pain (in older children)
Bad breath or a reduced sense of smell
Fever that returns after appearing to go away
Fatigue, fussiness or a drop in appetite
You may sense that your child just is not bouncing back the way they usually do. If the cold seems to linger or worsen, it is a good time to check in.
How We Support Children with Sinusitis at Joyful Seeds
At Joyful Seeds Paediatric & Development Clinic, we begin with what matters most, your child’s comfort and your peace of mind. Every consultation is calm, unhurried and centred on understanding your child’s full picture of health.
When you visit us, your child’s care may include:
A gentle physical examination, including the nose, throat and ears
A review of your child’s recent illness timeline and symptom changes
Discussion of any allergies, asthma or other contributing factors
Guidance on supportive care such as nasal rinses or steam inhalation
Child-safe medications if needed, including decongestants or antibiotics for bacterial cases
Follow-up care to ensure the infection is resolving well
Our consultants, Dr Charmaine Teo and Dr Martha Liu, bring deep experience in managing both everyday childhood infections and more persistent respiratory concerns. They will guide your child’s recovery with warmth, knowledge and a personalised plan that works for your family.
Easing Discomfort and Helping Children Breathe Easy Again
Sinusitis can affect how your child sleeps, eats and plays. It can lead to disrupted routines and tired mornings, for both parent and child. At Joyful Seeds, we care for more than just the symptoms. We care for your child’s wellbeing and your family’s experience.
We provide simple, clear instructions that fit into your day and support you in monitoring your child’s progress. Whether this is your child’s first episode or part of a pattern of frequent congestion, we are here to guide you through it gently and with confidence.
Let’s Help Your Child Breathe, Sleep and Feel Better
If your child’s cold is not improving or their symptoms are beginning to affect daily life, we invite you to visit us at Joyful Seeds Paediatric & Development Clinic. With kind eyes, listening ears and experienced care, we will help your child find relief, and help you feel reassured along the way.
