Dear Doctor,
I am a 38-year old male, and currently taking propranolol for hypertension.
About a week ago, I consulted with my personal doctor regarding a malodorous, yellow-to-greenish nasal discharge which I first noticed about 3 days prior to my consultation. My doctor said it's a sinus infection. I had some prior problems of nasal congestion, but the mucus were clear and have no odor. I have no headaches or facial pains/pressures that are common in chronic sinusitis.What's puzzling me is the malodorous stuff, which only comes out from the left opening of my nose (--the right side shows clear, "odorless" mucus). I can feel some discomfort on my left ear (fullness and ringing), and also a seemingly (only slightly) swollen gum on my upper left jaw.
I have been on antibiotics for 6 days now, but the symptoms remained and don't seem to respond to the treatment. What could possibly be wrong with me? I am so ashamed to mingle with other people because of my condition.
Thank you so much for your help.
May God bless you always.
Reply: --------------
The symptoms you have described are consistent with a diagnosis of acute sinusitis. Acute sinusitis is typically associated with nasal congestion, purulent discharge, facial discomfort, and alterations in sense of taste or smell. Halitosis or bad breath may also accompany such infections because of post-nasal drainage into the throat. Bacterial sinus infections associated with such symptoms may follow ordinary viral upper respiratory infections such as the common cold. Antibiotics alone may not result in dramatic improvement in the symptoms in the short period of time you have described. Often other measures are also helpful for symptoms including the use of nasal saline sprays to irrigate the nose, decongestants to reduce swelling, expectorants to thin secretions thereby promoting drainage, and possibly non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents such as ibuprofen to reduce inflammation and discomfort.
--
Steve Dankle, MD
Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery
Milwaukee, Wis
NOTICE: OFCN is not engaged in the rendering of professional medical services. The information contained on this system or any other OFCN system should not supplant individual professional consultation. It is offered exclusively as a community education service. Advice on individual problems must be obtained directly from a professional.
Click here to review
previous Ear, Nose and Throat Clinic consultations