Nasal Staph Infection Symptoms

The sinuses are an air-filled cavity in the skull behind the forehead, cheekbones, nose and eyes. According to Medicine Net, a trusted source of medical information since 1996, the sinuses are lined with cilia, or small hairs, that filter debris entering the nasal passages. Approximately 25 to 30 percent of people have staphylococci bacteria, commonly known as staph, in the nose already, and this usually doesn't cause problems in an otherwise healthy immune system. But in the case of a nasal infection or sinusitis, it produces tremendous discomfort and possible complications that may require medical attention.

Identification

• Pressure is felt in the head and face.

  The Mayo Clinic states that acute or severe sinusitis occurs when the nasal passages swell, blocking mucus drainage and causing congestion. The face and cheeks are usually tender, and acute sinusitis is accompanied by a persistent headache. The mucus discharged from the nose is a thick yellow or green substance that may also cause coughing that worsens at night. There is intense pressure felt on the face and ears, a sore throat and sometimes bad breath. A general sense of fatigue and irritability is common, along with a fever or nausea.

Causes

• Infections are bacterial, viral or fungal.

  As indicated by the Mayo Clinic, sinusitis occurs most often as a result of staph bacteria, the common cold (a virus), allergies or other fungal infections that block nasal passages. Because the sinuses are unable to drain properly, a moist environment where the bacteria or virus thrives is created, increasing the severity of infection.

Treatment

• Antibiotics are sometimes prescribed.

  The U.S. Library of Medicine and the National Institutes of Health state that most nasal infections subside on their own. They do recommend getting plenty of rest, and drinking a lot of fluids (preferably water) to thin out mucus and increase drainage. Applying hot moist compresses to the face several times a day, inhaling steam, and using a vaporizer and saline nasal spray also help reduce congestion. Aspirin, acetaminophen and ibuprofen assist with pain.

  Antibiotics such as amoxicillin, doxycycline or trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole may be prescribed for severe bacterial or chronic nasal infections accompanied by a fever over 102.2 degrees Fahrenheit (39 degrees Celsius), acute facial swelling and extreme pain.

Prevention

• Wash hands often with hot water and soap.

  To help prevent nasal infections, diminish contact with people who have a cold or bacterial infection. If this is not feasible, such as with a co-worker, spouse, housemate or child, The Mayo Clinic recommends washing hands often. This is especially important before eating or touching the eyes, nose and any open wounds. If allergies are an issue, work with a doctor to reduce congestion symptoms. Stay away from cigarette smoke or polluted air and operate a humidifier in the home.

Warnings

• Allergies can cause congestion.

  Because nasal infections complicate breathing, it may prompt an asthma attack; therefore, keep asthma medications close at hand. If a nasal infection lasts more than eight weeks, (two to three weeks in children), it may become chronic and require aggressive therapies. Untreated severe bacterial infections can travel to the brain lining and cause meningitis. They can also settle in the eye socket, creating vision problems or blindness.