The most common symptoms of bacterial sinusitis include nasal congestion, thick yellow or green nasal discharge, and facial pain or pressure. In addition, fever, earache, tooth ache, and fatigue can also be symptomatic of bacterial sinusitis. Since sinus problems are common in conjunction with a cold or flu, it is important to make the distinction between sinus congestion that is due to cold or flu and bacterial sinusitis. When a cold returns after initially improving, typically after about one week, bacterial sinusitis should be suspected. Prompt medical evaluation and subsequent antibiotic treatment needs to be instituted.
Sinus infections are usually bacterial in origin, so antibiotics are typically effective in treating the infection itself, as well as the symptoms. Viral infections, which produce symptoms of sinus congestion, are not treated with antibiotics because antibiotics are only effective against bacterial illnesses. In addition, bacterial sinusitis can be extremely hardy and resistant to treatment, so it is critical that the patient finish all his antibiotics.
When a regimen of antibiotics is not fully completed, the sinus infection may not disappear and might even come back with a vengeance. Antibiotics sometimes cause side effects such as pains in the stomach, diarrhea, and nausea, which can discourage the patient from completing his treatment. In these cases, the patient needs to call his doctor to report the side effects.
In addition to antibiotic therapy, decongestants are effective in combating sinus congestion and improving breathing. They are not useful, however, in treating the actual infection. If used for more than the recommended time period, decongestants can have a rebound effect, where nasal congestion can worsen. Alternatives to decongestants include over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications, which can decrease nasal inflammation, as well as other symptoms of infection such as fever, body aches and headache.
Drinking plenty of fluids is also recommended during the duration of bacterial sinusitis. Fluids flush out toxins and prevent dehydration. When symptoms are not improving despite antibiotic treatment, the physician needs to be notified, because this can indicate a secondary or resistant infection.
Good nutrition and getting enough rest is not only important during the acute phase of the illness, they are also important in prevention of bacterial sinusitis in the first place. The immune system benefits from a diet high in fruits, vegetables, and lean protein, daily exercise, and recuperative sleep. In addition, managing stress is important in keeping the immune system healthy and reducing the risk of infection. Since bacterial sinusitis is more common in the winter months, it is important that people practice good hand washing and try to avoid close contact with those who are already sick.
