Possible complications of a bacterial infection of the nose and sinuses

This bacterial infection can come back or become a long-term (chronic) condition. In rare cases, it can cause these problems:

•     Inflamed tissue around the brain and spinal cord (meningitis)
•     Inflamed tissue around the eyes (orbital cellulitis)
•     Inflamed bones around the sinuses (osteitis)

These problems may need to be treated in the hospital. You may need an IV antibiotic medicine or surgery.

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 Treatment for bacterial infection of the nose and sinuses

Treatment may include the following:

•     Antibiotics This medicine treats bacterial infection.
•     Nasal corticosteroid medications. Nose drops or spray to relieve inflammation and congestion.
•     Over-the-counter pain relievers (pain relievers). This is to relieve pain and pressure in the sinuses. Always talk with your healthcare provider before using any over-the-counter medicine.
•     Nasal decongestant medications. Spray or drops that can help relieve congestion. Do not use them for more than a few days.
•     Salt washing (saline irrigation). This can help loosen mucus.

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 Diagnosing a bacterial infection of the nose and sinuses

Your healthcare provider can diagnose this type of infection if you have had an upper respiratory infection, such as a cold, for 10 days or more without improvement or with symptoms that do not go away or even get worse. Your healthcare provider will ask about your health history and symptoms. He will check your vital signs, including your temperature. They will also do an exam. Your healthcare provider will check your ears, nose, and throat. You probably won't need any tests. If the infection comes back, you may have other tests.

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 Symptoms of a bacterial infection of the nose and sinuses

Symptoms can be different for each person and may include the following:

•     Nasal congestion or obstruction
•     Pain or pressure in the face
•     Thick, colored discharge from the nose

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These are other symptoms you may have:

•     Runny nose
•     Fluid that runs from the nose to the throat (post nasal drip)
•     Headache
•     Cough
•     Pain
•     Fever

 What are the causes of bacterial infection of the nose and sinuses?

This type of infection often occurs after an upper respiratory infection, such as a cold. The bacteria then infect the membranes of the nasal cavity and sinuses. But you can also get it if you have any of the following:

•     Allergic rhinitis
•     Long-term nasal congestion and inflammation not caused by allergies
•     Obstruction (blockage) in the nose

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 What are paranasal sinuses?

The nasal cavity is the large air-filled space behind the nose. The sinuses are a group of spaces formed by the bones of the face. They connect with the nasal cavity. Bacterial infection causes the tissue that lines these spaces to become inflamed. Mucus may not be able to drain normally. That causes pain in the face and other symptoms.

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