Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with Google
What Causes Recurrent Sinus Infection?
Question: I was diagnosed 12 days ago with a sinus infection . I had already been sick for 4 weeks when I saw the doctor . He prescribed Bactrim DS twice a day for 7 days. It has been 4 days since I finished the medication and I am sick again . Could this be a virus ?
Brief Answer:
As below:
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thank you for your query.
1. Sinusitis may take a few few weeks to heal. A nasal endoscopy, a nasal swab (to check for bacterial, fungal infections) and a change of antibiotic may help. If no pathogenic bacteria or fungi are found, then it is either a resolving infection or a viral infection.
2. A Sinus CT is the gold standard investigation for sinusitis if you have recurrent attacks or if recovery is delayed.
3. Supportive medication such as anti-allergic mucolytics, anti-inflammatory medication, decongestants and regular steam inhalation are equally important to open up blocked sinuses. Duration of therapy should be longer than a week along with rest and hydration.
I hope that I have answered your queries. If you have any further questions, I will be available to answer them.
Regards.
As below:
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thank you for your query.
1. Sinusitis may take a few few weeks to heal. A nasal endoscopy, a nasal swab (to check for bacterial, fungal infections) and a change of antibiotic may help. If no pathogenic bacteria or fungi are found, then it is either a resolving infection or a viral infection.
2. A Sinus CT is the gold standard investigation for sinusitis if you have recurrent attacks or if recovery is delayed.
3. Supportive medication such as anti-allergic mucolytics, anti-inflammatory medication, decongestants and regular steam inhalation are equally important to open up blocked sinuses. Duration of therapy should be longer than a week along with rest and hydration.
I hope that I have answered your queries. If you have any further questions, I will be available to answer them.
Regards.
Note: For further follow up on related General & Family Physician Click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
