When does Sinusitis Call for an Antibiotic? - Sinus Problems Message Board

Chrislynn · 02-14-2004, 10:17 AM

I went to the ENT yesterday and I have been pondering the fact on whether or not I really need to be taking an antibiotic. My CT scan revealed a little thickening of the sinuses but my turbinates were "beautiful" as the doctor put it and there was little inflamation and no blockage. He diagnosed me on my sheet as 'ethmoid sinusitis'.

I am not very congested, I am mainly draining from the constant PND. I do not really have the classic "sinus symptoms" like sinus pain and pressure. I have the PND and the ear ache but my ears are not infected per the ENT.

So I am hesitant to start an antibiotic as I do not want my body to be immuned when I really do need an antibiotic. Do you think I should get a second opinion? I really am not too happy with my ENT experience.

chigs489 · 02-14-2004, 11:43 AM

How long have you been having sinus problems?

Chrislynn · 02-14-2004, 12:05 PM

I have had allergic rhinitis for 15 plus years. I have had chronic PND for over 2 years and ear problems off and on all my life. I have only been diagnosed as having one sinus infection in my entire life. So I really do not consider myself to have have chronic sinus problems.

However, since my ENT said I have ethmoid sinusitis. I guess I do now.

chigs489 · 02-14-2004, 05:48 PM

Sinusitis is a tricky thing. It simply means inflammation of the sinuses, but what causes this inflammation can be unclear.

I asked my allergist about this today, and she said "because we cannot directly see the bacteria in the sinuses, except through a culture or a endoscopy, we have to go by the symptoms."

The symptoms of a bacterial infection are usually yellow or green nasal discharge, intense headaches, especially when you bend over -a kind of throbbing feeling, facial tenderness, and dizziness.

Allergic rhinitis is simply an inflammation of the nasal cavity (I have it), which causes blockage, PND, and even throat irritation. You may also feel intense stuffiness, that can cause mild headaches.

If I were you, I would get tested for Eustachian Tube Disfunction, since the ear aches may be unrelated to your sinus condition.