4 Ways to Identify a Nasal Staph Infection

1. Learn the Causes of the Disease

About a quarter of all sinus infections can be attributed to the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus, known commonly as staph. The staphylococcus bacteria normally populates your nose and skin, but when congestion creates opportune conditions for a bacteria colony, the nose’s cilia will become inflamed and create an infection. Staph infections are also common in people with weak immune systems. A bad diet, AIDS, diabetes and other immune system disorders can present staph infection side effects.

2. Identify the Early Symptoms

Staph infection usually begins as a side effect of a cold or flu, when your nose is congested. At the end of a cold, you may experience swelling and redness within the sinus cavity. Your nose may itch, and you may feel stinging inside your nose. The swelling will also cause further congestion.

3. Anticipate the Secondary Symptoms

Depending on the severity of the infection, further symptoms may present. Many people experience coughing, facial pain and pressure, postnasal drip and green nasal discharge. In extreme cases, you can lose your sense of taste and smell. If dehydrated, you may have a constant metallic taste in your mouth. Staph infections are not dangerous, but they can be annoying and inconvenient when they persist for extended periods.

4. Know the Signs of a Chronic Condition

Staph infections can go away on their own and then return in a month or two. Untreated staph infections can result in chronic problems, but these issues also may indicate another condition, such as diabetes, AIDS or asthma. When staph infections continue to recur after treatment, consider the possibility of a larger issue and call your doctor. Chronic allergies, such as an allergy to fungus, can cause chronic nasal staph infections.