Chronic Ear & Sinus Infections
Ear and sinus infections can very painful, uncomfortable and annoying. Typically, an ear or sinus infection can be cured with prescribed antibiotics, but when an individual's immune system is compromised or weakened, a chronic infection can set it. This happens when a person is under a lot of stress, lacking sleep or has other medical conditions straining the immune system.
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Facts
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According to www.ent-consult.com, more than 35 million individuals in the U.S. suffer from sinus infections every year. Just as many suffer from ear infections as well. These infections are typically seen during cold and flu season--from November to March--due to the rapid spread of bacteria and viruses. People with a weakened immune system can develop chronic ear and sinus infections that can last for months without relief. In these rare cases, a person may need hospitalization in order to recover.
Prevention
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The most common way to prevent chronic ear and sinus infections is to use medication as early as possible. As soon as you notice signs of congestion, such as an ear ache, nasal discharge or stuffy nose, you should take a decongestant and an antihistamine to keep any irritation under control. If you find these over-the-counter medications don't help alleviate the pressure, pain and discomfort, it is advisable to see a doctor and begin a antibiotic regimen. Also drink plenty of water (at least six, 8 oz glasses) and get plenty of sleep (at least eight hours a night) to help strengthen your immune system.
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Complications
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When an ear and sinus infection turns chronic they need to be observed by a physician very closely to avoid severe complications. Some complications of a chronic ear and sinus infection are the spread of the infection into the throat, the eyes and even the brain. When an infection gets out of control, it continues to grow and weaken the body's natural defenses until the infection takes over. In these extreme cases only antibiotics administered at a hospital can cure the infection.
Treatment
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The most common treatment for chronic ear and sinus infections is an antibiotic regimen prescribed by a doctor. A doctor may also recommend a prescription strength decongestant as well, to cure the irritation of the sinus cavity. If the chronic infection is connected to an allergic reaction, it is recommended to consistently take an antihistamine to prevent future infection.
Identification
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The most common ways to recognize a chronic ear and sinus infection is pain in the ears, head pain, nasal congestion, fever and fatigue. If these symptoms last for more than two weeks, the infection may be categorized as a chronic infection. Common ear and sinus infections last for four to six days once placed on antibiotics. In extreme and rare cases, a bad ear and sinus infection may cause bleeding from the nose and/or ears.
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