Antibiotics, soluble substances extracted from bacteria or molds, inhibit microorganisms’ growth. There are two types of antibiotics: broad-spectrum and narrow-spectrum. Broad-spectrum antibiotics work against several bacteria, whereas narrow-spectrum antibiotics protect against very small number of bacteria.
Antibiotics given to patients of sinusitis kill bacteria causing symptoms-sinus infections. The sinus infection is one of the most common disorders for which antibiotics are administered. However, various research studies proved that inappropriate use of antibiotics is common. Excessive use of antibiotics, in fact, has resulted in bacterial resistance to frequently prescribed antibiotics.
Antibiotics should mainly be used for patients highly prone to bacterial infections, as in most of the cases symptoms heal on their own within fortnight. Indeed, doctors wait until two weeks before initiating an antibiotic’s course. However, antibiotics are prescribed at the earliest if symptoms-sinus infections are severe. Antibiotics are administered to kids having nasal discharge accompanied with a cough persisting up to three weeks. If fever is over 39 degree Celsius and facial pain and headache occur, and areas around the eyes swell badly, antibiotics are required.
During acute sinus infection, antibiotics are generally not used, as the symptoms heal on their own. If antibiotics are administered, they may reduce period of sickness slightly. The type and dosage of antibiotic depends on general health condition of the patient and severity of symptoms. Amoxicillin, Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole antibiotics are administered to patients suffering from acute bacterial sinusitis. Consult doctor before starting a course of antibiotics.
Macrolide, cephalosporin and amoxicillin-clavulanate antibiotics are prescribed in complicated cases of sinus infection. Doctors may use different types of antibiotics, such as levofloxacin, clarithromycin, cefpodoxime, cefuroxime, azithromycin and amoxicillin-clavulanate, if patients’ condition does not improve even after twenty-eight days of medication. If oral antibiotics were not helpful, intravenous antibiotics may be recommended.
However, antibiotics have side effects that should be taken into account while prescribing the antibiotics. Side effects may vary from antibiotic to antibiotic. Some of the common side effects include :
- Sulfa, penicillin and other antibiotics may create allergy, such as skin rashes.
- Some drugs if taken with antibiotics may cause allergy. So, check with doctor about right combination of medication.
- They may increase risk of vaginal infection in female patients.
- They create gastrointestinal problems.
- A bad taste
- Diarrhea may continue for a long period.
Some antibiotics like levofloxacin may damage or rupture tendons.
