Bacterial Sinus Infections

According to the Dr. Murray Grossan, 35 million Americans suffer from sinus infections every year. Sinus infections can be the result of a virus, fungus or bacteria. Bacterial sinus infections are the most common and the easiest to treat, states SinusInfectionHelp.com.

Facts

• The sinus cavity sits behind the eyes and nose as an empty space. The cavity filters pollutants out of the air before it enters the lungs. When the sinuses are irritated by allergens, environmental pollutants or bacteria, they swell and can become infected.

Symptoms

• Dr. Murray Grossan claims that the most common symptoms of a bacterial sinus infection are persistent runny nose, sinus pressure, congestion, headache and postnasal drip. If these symptoms last for more than two weeks, you most likely have a bacterial sinus infection.

Treatment

• According to SinusInfectionHelp.com, bacterial sinus infections are treated with antibiotics. After taking the antibiotics for two to three days the symptoms should subside. To ensure a complete recovery, do not discontinue the use of the prescribed drug.

Prevention

• The best way to prevent a bacterial sinus infection is to keep the sinus cavity unswollen and uncongested. If the irritation is from allergies, take an antihistamine. If the irritation is caused by the common cold, a weakened immune system or environmental issues, take a decongestant.

Complications

• A bacterial sinus infection can spread to the ear, throat or even the brain, causing a more serious illness that may require hospitalization.