Signs and Symptoms of Sinus Infection

You’re feeling miserable and all you want is a quick fix. Why can’t you just get an antibiotic and be done with your suffering? Well, it’s not that simple. It turns out the decision of whether or not to prescribe antibiotics can be tricky – especially if the flu is involved. Unfortunately, it’s not an exact science. That said, there are some standard guidelines most physicians consider before they take out their prescription pad.

You’re burning up. Forehead-burning fevers, teeth chattering chills, along those awful shakes, are standard symptoms of a viral flu, and they don’t necessarily indicate a need for antibiotics. That’s because viral illnesses cannot be treated with antibiotics. Antibiotics work only on bacterial infections. If the flu is full blown in your area and your symptoms match those of your neighbors, friends, colleagues and family, chances are your doctor will recommend that you stay  in bed and drink plenty of liquids. However, there is a slim chance that the viral infection led to a bacterial infection like a strep throat. Time will tell. Meanwhile, get that bed rest.

If that flu has been lingering. Well, it might have turned into another problem like a sinus infection – which is bacterial – and does merit an antibiotic. Still, a run-of-the-mill flu can also hang around. There’s another way to tell

The color of your mucus. Viral nasal secretions are watery and clear. If your mucus is green or yellow and thick and sticky, well, this could be a sign of a bacterial infection. But it’s not a sure-fire sign either -- viral mucus can also be green.

A painful sore throat. Even if your throat is red and feels just awful, again, it might not merit antibiotics. But if your doctor sees white spots, this could indicate a strep infection – which is bacterial – and definitely responds to antibiotics. To test it, your doctor will first take a culture or rapid antigen test, which takes less than 20 minutes and can be done while you wait. If it comes up positive expect to be prescribed antibiotics. If it comes up negative, it’s still not an iron-clad diagnosis. Further testing might be needed.

Lab test is positive. A lab test is the only sure-fire method to synch if you really require antibiotics. Most doctors take a throat swab and send it out to the lab. It can take up to two days for the bacterial culture to grow in the lab.  If it comes up positive – antibiotics will be prescribed.

HOW TO TAKE ANTIBIOTICS

Follow the full course, even if you start to feel better. If you cut it short there might still be lingering bacteria.

If you’re taking tetracycline, you should stay away from foods containing calcium. Milk and cheese can bind the drug in such a sway that its ability to be absorbed is inhibited. Other antibiotics should be taken on an empty stomach, usually two hours after a meal. Speak with your doctor, or pharmacists to find out whether there are other foods to avoid.

Storage instructions should be followed exactly.

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