"Antibiotic immunity or resistance happens when patients are given antibiotics over and over again, hoping that this next antibiotic is going to reverse the problem and make them feel better," Dr. Gergits told Patient Daily. "Most of the time, the medication choices that we have work well for patients with sinusitis. Sinus infections are treated by antibiotics all the time."
An article published by the Mayo Clinic reports that up to one-third to one-half of antibiotic use in humans is unnecessary or inappropriate, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
WebMD reports that approximately 90% of adults diagnosed with acute sinusitis in the United States, a sinus infection lasting less than four weeks, are prescribed antibiotics. A sinus infection lasting for more than 12 weeks is called chronic sinusitis. Common symptoms of sinus infections include nasal congestion, headaches, coughing, facial pain or discomfort, and nasal drainage.
Cleveland Clinic highlights that numerous sinus infections may stem from viral causes. It's important to note that antibiotics are ineffective at treating viral infections. Overusing antibiotics or needlessly employing them to address viral infections can cause unnecessary side effects and cause patients to develop antibiotic resistance, potentially making future infections more challenging to treat.
The CDC states that individuals who develop antibiotic resistance may encounter heightened risks when dealing with infections linked to various medical procedures, including joint replacements, organ transplants, and diabetes treatment.
Sinus infections may also stem from allergies, which, like viral infections, may not be effectively treated with antibiotics, according to Very Well Health. An ENT specialist can determine whether antibiotics are necessary in your specific case or if you might need a different type of treatment.
According to the Sinus and Allergy Wellness Center of North Scottsdale's website, Dr. Gergits earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in chemistry from West Virginia University. Afterward, he went on to earn a Master of Science in biochemistry from Lehigh University in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. Dr. Gergits completed his education with a doctor of osteopathic medicine degree at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine.
