What is the recommended treatment for acute bacterial sinusitis?

Acute bacterial sinusitis is typically characterized by symptoms persisting beyond 10 days or a severe presentation such as high fever, purulent nasal discharge, and facial pain. In such cases, when a bacterial cause is suspected rather than a viral etiology, antibiotics are indicated to effectively treat the infection and help alleviate symptoms.

The rationale for selecting antibiotics as the treatment is that they target the bacteria causing the sinus infection, which can lead to more rapid symptom relief and decrease the risk of complications associated with untreated bacterial infections. Current guidelines support the use of antibiotics in cases where bacterial sinusitis is diagnosed, particularly for patients exhibiting more severe symptoms or if symptoms have worsened after initial improvement.

Other treatments, such as antihistamines, nasal saline irrigation, and decongestants, may help alleviate symptoms associated with sinusitis but do not address the underlying bacterial infection. Antihistamines, for instance, may dry out mucus and potentially worsen sinus congestion. Nasal saline irrigation can provide symptomatic relief but is not effective against the bacterial aspect of the sinus infection. Decongestants can help ease nasal congestion temporarily, yet they are not therapeutic for the infection itself.

In summary, prescribing antibiotics is the correct approach when the clinical presentation suggests bacterial sinusitis