Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with Google
What Causes Greenish Black Nasal Discharge In A Patient With Fungal Sinusitis?
Question: I have had a severe staph infection in my upper sinuses for 3 years now. This has been fully diagnosed by several doctors. I have been on every antibiotic medically possible to cure this, at least that is what the doctor is telling me). I have had 2 sinus surgeries, but they did not clear the upper sinuses. My windows are clear. The doctor at KU Medical Center, Kansas City took a culture 2 weeks ago and the staph grew extremely fast. He is putting my on more antibiotics. One doctor wanted to do the balloon treatment, but insurance does not pay for it. The doctor at KU does not want to do surgery yet. I am in extreme pain. So much pain my teeth hurt. The stuff coming out of my nose and running down the back of my throat is dark green, so dark almost black. What can be done?
Brief Answer:
Allergic fungal sinusitis...
Detailed Answer:
Hi
Thanks for posting the query
In the first instance, the greenish black discharge could be the fungal infection in the sinuses. Unless the fungus is not get rid off, you will never feel better.
As there is acute infection in the sinuses, surgery is not recommended at this stage. The best way to reduce this problem is a combination of home remedies, oral medicines and intra-nasal sprays.
My suggestion for you is:
1. Try doing steam inhalation regularly for at least twice daily for 2 minutes.
2. Try 'Jala neti' using neti pot, this will clear the sinuses and help you to recover faster.
3. You would require mucolytics such as bromhexine or ambroxol for reducing the consistency of the sinus secretions.
4. Saline nasal spray should be used regularly. Saline helps in easy clearance of the sinus secretions and keeps the nose moist.
5. Steroid nasal spray such as Fluticasone or Momentasone should be used every day morning.
6. Oral anti-inflammatory medicines such as diclofenac or ibuprofen can help in relieving the pain and inflammation.
7. Avoid smoking/perfumes/room fresheners/chilled food and beverages/coffee.
Hope this answers your query; I will be available for the follow up queries.
Regards
Dr. Naveen Kumar N.
ENT and Head & Neck Surgeon
Allergic fungal sinusitis...
Detailed Answer:
Hi
Thanks for posting the query
In the first instance, the greenish black discharge could be the fungal infection in the sinuses. Unless the fungus is not get rid off, you will never feel better.
As there is acute infection in the sinuses, surgery is not recommended at this stage. The best way to reduce this problem is a combination of home remedies, oral medicines and intra-nasal sprays.
My suggestion for you is:
1. Try doing steam inhalation regularly for at least twice daily for 2 minutes.
2. Try 'Jala neti' using neti pot, this will clear the sinuses and help you to recover faster.
3. You would require mucolytics such as bromhexine or ambroxol for reducing the consistency of the sinus secretions.
4. Saline nasal spray should be used regularly. Saline helps in easy clearance of the sinus secretions and keeps the nose moist.
5. Steroid nasal spray such as Fluticasone or Momentasone should be used every day morning.
6. Oral anti-inflammatory medicines such as diclofenac or ibuprofen can help in relieving the pain and inflammation.
7. Avoid smoking/perfumes/room fresheners/chilled food and beverages/coffee.
Hope this answers your query; I will be available for the follow up queries.
Regards
Dr. Naveen Kumar N.
ENT and Head & Neck Surgeon
Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Raju A.T
Answered by
Dr. Naveen Kumar Nanjasetty
Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist
Practicing since :2001
Answered : 2542 Questions
Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
