Antibiotics are commonly given to treat bacterial sinus infections. It's important to take your antibiotic exactly as prescribed by your physician for the recommended time. If you quit taking the antibiotic prematurely, even if you feel better, the infection may not be completely eradicated and may return stronger or resistant to the type of antibiotic that you were taking. Antibiotics come with some side effects, but most are usually mild.
Nausea and Vomiting
Many antibiotics prescribed for sinus infections, such as amoxicillin, irritate the stomach and can cause nausea, sometimes vomiting. It's also possible to experience heartburn and acid reflux in combination with nausea. Taking your antibiotic with food or milk if not contraindicated by your physician or pharmacist helps alleviate nausea and vomiting.
Diarrhea
Narrow spectrum antibiotics are usually prescribed for sinus infections to prevent cross resistance throughout the body. If a sinus infection is chronic or resistant to milder antibiotics, broad-spectrum antibiotics such as Levaquin or Vancomycin may be prescribed. These broad-spectrum antibiotics kill natural flora in the intestines and cause diarrhea. Diarrhea usually resolves when the antibiotic is completed. If you experience persistent or painful diarrhea, call your physician to see if your antibiotic should be switched.
Vaginal Yeast Infections in Women
When broad-spectrum antibiotics are used for severe sinus infections, some women may develop vaginal yeast infections. Symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection include itching, vaginal pain and foul smelling discharge. Your physician can order a medication for you, such as diflucan, if you develop a vaginal yeast infection.
Member Comments