Both the common cold and influenza may cause complications. Most healthy adults do not suffer from complications; however, young children, people with insufficient immune systems and the elderly remain most at risk. According to the National Institute of Allergies and Infectious Diseases, complications may become serious and require a person to visit a medical professional before a more serious illness or infection sets in.
Ear Infection
Ear infections, also referred to as otitis media, continue to be a complication of the common cold and flu in children. Bacteria or viruses accumulate behind the eardrum, or middle ear, causing the infection. The Eustachian tubes run from the middle ear to the back of the throat. When a person suffers from a cold or flu, the tubes can clog or become blocked. When the blockage occurs, additional fluids continue to build up behind the ear leading to ear pain, drainage from the ear or fever. One or both ears may become infected and temporary hearing loss can occur. Small children or infants who are unable to verbalize symptoms may cry, seem exceptionally irritable or tug at their ears. Still, tugging at the ears is not a reliable method of diagnosing an ear infection, advises MedlinePlus. Many ear infections clear up without treatment. When they are caused by a bacteria, they can be treated with antibiotics.
Sinusitis
Prolonged colds and bouts of the flu may lead to sinus infections in both children and adults. The sinuses are paired hollow cavities in the head connected to the nose. When the sinuses become infected they fill with fluid, and the surrounding tissue becomes inflamed. Symptoms include facial pressure, stuffy nose, nasal mucous and congestion. According to the Cleveland Clinic, an acute sinus infection can last four weeks or more. Nasal sprays, oral decongestants and antibiotics may be recommended to treat sinusitis, according to the clinic. Sinus infections left untreated may lead to rare complications including meningitis or a brain abscess.
Pneumococcal Pneumonia
According to MayoClinic.com, pneumonia may cause a variety of symptoms ranging mild to severe. The clinic advises pneumococcal pneumonia is the most severe complication of the flu. The complication occurs when the tissue and lining of the lungs and upper respiratory tract become infected. Signs of pneumonia include cough, shortness of breath, chest pain and fever. MayoClinic.com reports that an older adult suffering from pneumonia may not suffer from a fever. Treatment involves rest and oral antiviral medications.
