If you suffer from fall allergies, then you probably know the feeling: the pressure headaches, the post-nasal drip, the sore throat. All the signs that an allergy flare-up has advanced into a sinus infection. When your body’s fighting off illness, relief can’t come quickly enough – but doctors are rethinking treatment methods for these kinds of ailments. And that means calling common antibiotics for sinus infections, such as amoxicillin, into question.
According to studies published earlier this year, up to 98 percent of sinus infections could be caused by viruses, not bacteria. Because antibiotics don’t stop viruses, taking too many of them can cause unnecessary tolerance, and it can encourage the development of “superbugs” that are immune to the drugs’ effects, reports the Infectious Diseases Society of America.
Bacteria-caused sinus infections tend to have some of these symptoms, according to the society:
- Illness for 10 days with no improvement
- Nasal discharge and facial pain that lasts three or four days
- Fever of 102 degrees or more
Viral infections often tend to improve before getting worse. If a fever sets in, then it’s probable that a bacterial infection has taken over.
The ISDA recommends shorter treatment periods on antibiotics for adults but suggests that children should complete a full, longer course for extended protection. In addition, the group discourages excessive use of amoxicillin, azithromycin,clarithromycin and other common antibiotics.
When you’re dealing with a sinus infection that won’t quit, then call us for help. We’ll be happy to help you find relief – and to do so in just the manner that’s right for you and your health.
Sources:
http://blogs.wsj.com/health/
http://abclocal.go.com/ktrk/
Frequently Asked Questions
Studies show that up to 98 percent of sinus infections are caused by viruses rather than bacteria. This means that antibiotics, which target bacterial infections, are often ineffective for the majority of sinus infections.
Antibiotics such as amoxicillin do not work against viruses, which cause most sinus infections. Overusing antibiotics can lead to drug tolerance and the growth of antibiotic-resistant 'superbugs,' making treatment more difficult in the future.
Bacterial sinus infections typically cause symptoms like illness lasting 10 days without improvement, nasal discharge and facial pain for three or four days, and a fever of 102 degrees or higher. These signs indicate that a bacterial infection may be present, requiring targeted treatment.
Viral sinus infections tend to improve before they worsen, whereas bacterial infections may show prolonged symptoms and can cause a high fever. If a fever develops after initial symptoms, a bacterial infection has likely taken over.
The Infectious Diseases Society of America recommends shorter courses of antibiotic treatment for adults with bacterial sinus infections to minimize overuse and resistance. This approach helps provide effective care while reducing unnecessary exposure to antibiotics.
Yes, children should complete a full, longer course of antibiotics as recommended to ensure extended protection and effective eradication of bacterial sinus infections, per current medical guidelines.
If sinus infection symptoms persist without improvement or worsen, especially with facial pain and high fever, it is important to seek medical help. A healthcare provider can assess the situation and recommend proper treatment tailored to the individual’s health needs.