Staph bacteria in the nasal passages can cause a serious infection, with symptoms including swelling, tenderness, congestion, headaches, coughing, and fatigue. Treatment involves rest, hydration, warm compresses, and sometimes antibiotics. Hand hygiene is important for prevention.
While small amounts of staph bacteria live in the nasal passages of all adults, in individuals with weakened immune systems, larger amounts of the bacteria can lead to a serious health condition known as a staph nasal infection. This condition is typically accompanied by swelling of the nasal passages, a feeling of tenderness in the face and cheeks, and a severe cough that is often worse at night. Congestion often accompanies illness, as do fatigue and headaches.
One of the most common symptoms of nasal staph infections in a swelling of the nasal passages. This typically results in a blockage of normal mucus drainage and flow, and can lead to severe congestion if not treated quickly. Additionally, the mucus associated with staph infections is relatively thick and is yellow or greenish in color compared to the traditional clear or white hue of healthy mucus.
Those who experience staph infections in the nose will typically also experience high amounts of tenderness on the face and cheeks. This is often accompanied by moderate to severe headaches. The pressure associated with these headaches typically occurs near the temples and ears.
Patients with nasal staph infections may also experience a cough that gets worse at night. In addition, they often have a very aching and hoarse voice, and in some cases they can even develop bad breath. Those affected by staph infections often also experience fatigue and may have a low-grade fever and nausea. A general sense of irritability is also a common sign associated with staph.
While staph infections can cause severe discomfort to those afflicted with them, treatment for the condition is relatively simple. In fact, most staph nasal infections will clear up on their own. Individuals who are experiencing a prolonged staph infection or whose symptoms are not improving are typically encouraged to increase their sleep and fluid intake.
Additionally, people with a nasal infection are often asked to use warm, moist compresses and take light over-the-counter pain relievers. Some specific antibiotics may be recommended by individuals who are experiencing a very severe staph nasal infection. As with any contagious disease, the best way to prevent the spread of staph is to follow basic hand hygiene guidelines.
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