Aa
Aa
A
A
A
Close
Avatar universal

Extremely painful, swollen nose - staph infection?

Came down with a big sore bump inside my left nostril.  Entire left side of nose became red and swollen.  Went to Prime Care and test showed "light staph infection".  Have been taking double-strength Bactrim along with Valtrex in case it could be the start of shingles.  It has been 4 days on meds with no improvement, but no rash either.  Extremely painful.  Wake up every 2 hours and need Vicodin.  Seems to radiate into cheek.  Scalp itches now.  Now also have one swollen, painful lymph node under left jaw.  Shouldn't the Bactrim be working by now?  Is there a more effective antibiotic that I should be using?
80 Responses
Sort by: Helpful Oldest Newest
Avatar universal
After dealing with this stuff for two years and trying everything I heard of, researching online for hours at a time, I finally found something that clears them up for good!  A&D diaper rash ointment. I know that may sound nuts, but it's the only thing that worked for good for me!  Antibiotics never worked for me, just made me sick in different ways, AND had sores in my nose.

It's not as crazy as sticking bleach up there, which I also tried!  Hope this helps someone. And I hope you're doing better since you posted this!
Helpful - 1
3 Comments
I'm gonna try it for the first time I will let you know what happens Thanks I hope it works.....
Did the diaper rash ointment work?
Hi! I have been dealing with the same problem for almost a year now. It keeps on coming back each time. I am so so tired. For how long does you have to use this A&D ointment? And did you wash your towels and bedding every day while using the cream? All advice is welcome ! Thank you !
20808049 tn?1533112300
I recently had staph also (skin, abscess under my arm). It was extremely painful. They suspected it was MRSA. I was prescribed a 14 day course of Clindamycin/300mg. After the first 24 hrs I saw improvement. By the 14th day the abscess was virtually gone. I would definitely go back to your doctor. If you've seen no improvement &/or it's gotten worse after 3 days, it sounds like they need to try another med or double check the diagnosis. Good luck to you! ~ys
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
Sorry about the bad news. The good news is that there is a really simple treatment for MRSA in the nose. What you need is mesosilver. You can buy a small bottle from amazon for $20. This should last you several months. Next before going to sleep and waking up dab two q tips into the bottle and then clean out each nostril with one. Resist the urge to pick your nose. This will serve to moisturize your nose as well as irradicate the bacteria from it. Do this every day and odds are you’ll never have an issue again. Good luck!
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
Yes I don't know what is going on but I also have swelling and very painful on the inside of my left nostril , and a headache. I just got over what I think was a zit on the inside of my left ear right before that. What's going on
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
I quit smoking about a year ago started with canker like sores in mouth which I attributted to bad fitting false teeth ambosol helped this then the sores stared on the tip of both nostrils inside terrible pain went to dr told I had staph I was allergic to the cream and to sulfa drugs after getting other antibotics I got better then it would creep back yesterday after a week of driving accross country hoping to make it back home it became. Unbearable I stopped at urgent care you could see the swelling looked like Karl Malden anyway the first thing the doc said was had I been a past smoker well all this did start after I quit he said these are nasal fissures,and hard to get rid of probably really long term antibiotics gave me nasal rinse shot of rosefen any way I know I waited till this got pretty bad and won't be home till Monday bottom line should I see another doc or is this one right I'm  confused as Ive never seen the stopping smoking on any post just a little scared cause I waited for this to get so bad before stopping thanks for taking the time to respond
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
I would get sores on the inside of my nose near the folds. I thought it was a nose ulcer. My nose and the bridge of my nose would get sore. The outer rim would become red and swollen. My PCP told me to just put some Neosporin on it. It came back a few months ago. I thought I had a sinus infection so I went to the minute clinic. I mentioned it to the PA but she told me to just leave it alone. Three weeks later I still had it. Went to the dermatologist a few days ago. They did a swab of my nose to test to see if it was viral, fungal or bacteria. It came back as a Staph infection and I was resistant to most antibiotics except one of the sulfa drugs. All this time I thought it was because I had allergies or a sinus infection. So glad I followed through with this. My father in law and former student are in the hospital with staph infections at the moment.
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
Ive had crusty red sores in my nose for almost 5 yrs and i finally got to an ent. Im getting surgery in a couple weeks, hes removing soft tissue. I hope this helps. When i first got an infection in my nose, i had gotten bells palsy which devastated me. I cant take the pain anymore. Ive put all kinds of oitments in there to help soften it, then the dr gave me muciprin which helps but ive also used clear iodine. Read up on the health benefits of iodine. I seen a website saying its good for staph in the nose..it burns like hell but it helps dry out the ooz.. good luck yall
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
this happened to me.  I think it is related to allergies.  I am going to see a ent doctor.  I also have headaches and a sore throat.  I put makeup on  to cover the red rash.
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
I've had an off & on infection (not sure if staph or ?, yet) just inside nostrils, probably from various hair removal methods causing irritation.

Local clinic nurse gave me several free samples of Bacitracin Zinc Ointment USP (each sample in a foilpac), manufactured by E. Fougera & Co. (Pharmaceutical company in Melville, NY).

I tried using it twice yesterday, and it caused the infection to start to get worse, and also it felt like I had drunk 20 cups of coffee (revved me up/agitation).

I called the company (E. Fougera), and asked what the ingredients were. They said Bacitracin antibiotic and petroleum jelly ("proprietary")--"proprietary" means there are secret ingredients that they refused to tell me what they are. I'm waiting for a call-back, to find out what those ingredients actually are.

Meanwhile, I looked on the internet for natural ways to treat nasal infections in nostrils, and found this wonderful forum! Last night and this morning, I tried raw (organic) honey, using q-tips, to apply to insides of nostrils (just a little). NO BAD REACTIONS AT ALL! It felt soothing, and healing.

I'm going to continue using the raw honey, to see if it works.

If anyone has a depressed immune system, they should avoid eating RAW honey, and use COOKED honey, instead. Why? Because raw honey may contain botulism bacterial spores, that get activated when they enter an immune-suppressed person (sick, having AIDS, etc.). (I'm not sure whether raw honey would be OK for immune compromised folks, for healing infections in nose--check with your doc first. Otherwise, use cooked honey, until you know for sure about using raw honey).

I'm also going to find out if the nostril infection is just local, or (hopefully not) "systemic"--beyond the nose.

So, thank you to ManukaHoneyGirl, and all of you using honey, and also to Dr. Weil's website that talks about using honey for infections, too.

I'm glad I found this neat forum!

Concerned Lady/Carol

Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
I am going through the same thing right now and that is how I came across your post. I have had MRSA (skin not respiratory) twice before and I think I have it again. It's a little scarier this time because the abscess in the right nostril is so painful and now I have a headache, swollen gland in the left side of my neck, the roof of my mouth on the left side, burning and pain on my let cheek and lip and I have been on Bactrim for about 3 days and applying ointment to the sore. I keep thinking since it's Sunday I want to go to the hospital and get checked but I'll feel like a jerk if there is nothing they can do. Please let me know if you get any answers and good luck.
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
I've just been diagnosed with staph, and though the infection was really bad a year ago, I'm not suffering much now -- the sores have simply persisted on my skin.  After reading all of the above, I'm glad I resisted my doctor's suggestion to go on antibiotics for a month; I'm trying several home remedies now (vitamin C + antibacterial soap + daily shower + diluted alcohol on skin + probiotics) while I wait for the test results to come in.  My question is:  should I agitate to continue with these home remedies, or (given that the infection WAS so bad last year, & given what other folks have said) should I go for the month of antibiotics, to try to wipe out the staph from my system?  Does it stay dormant & flare up (sort of the like the herpes virus, though it's not a virus)?  Or can it ever go away?
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
You should definitely go to the Dr for an antibiotic, you have all the symptoms of a sinus infection
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
Hi,after reading your post,I felt I must write because in my experience with staph,as this is what it seems for most people posting with symptoms,I have to share that I have had multiple staph infections.some very serious.the threat of staph can be especially serious in any are with potential spread to the brain and blood stream.a doctor must evaluate staph and culture the findings to determine what antiobiotic works best to prevent further concerns.everyone here should seek medical advise regarding these type symptoms.staph can be brought on due to exposure,weake immune system ,heigen in some cases,which in that case I would say when not infected it is good to take measures to disinfect,but once you have staph do not ever pick at scabs,whether you have alcohol or peroxide on hand or not.in some cases antibacterial soap can help the affected area,but our bodies naturally have bacteria and staph is usually found in the nose,so a balance of good bacteria should still remain,but we should never take a chance to spread further the infection by disturbing the area.with a doctor in certain cases,they will steralize and sometimes puncture and lance the area but I would trust them to do that...I have never had a doctor advise me to do this method because of the potential threat.its important to always try to stay germ free as much as possible,avoid settings where germs are prominent If possible,such as hospitals where staph can spread rapidly,around people infected etc,but antiobiotic treatment is a must and shouldn't be ignored.it isn't good to self medicate or perform small procedures on ones self in this case.I know sometimes one could question a doctor,saying why wouldn't they tell us something we think is so simple,but without being treated for staph,perhaps you had something else that cleared up during your treatment process,that wasn't infact staph and are attributing it to that..I personally know that my staph has become potentially life threatening and not only that,I'm allergic to all but one antibiotic,and the only one I can take gives me severe problems.but I know I was instructed to keep the area clean,covered and apply compresses.I was never instructed to remove scabbing etc. And I don't feel that anyone should do so,especially involving mucus membranes,sinus cavity,blood etc.should it continue,it could prove dangerous or even fatal.another thing that makes people prone to staph is the misuse of antibiotics,for example not taking regurally,starting n not finishing or overuse..too many doctors give antibiotics without first investigating into whether or not the illness they aim to treat is infact bacterial in nature or viral.as we know antibiotics do not treat viruses..I would plead with everyone in the future,unless they're sure it is a bacteria that needs an antibiotic,do not jump into taking them without knowing..our bodies will be at risk of bacterium becoming immune to that med,stronger and mutate.if we ever have to take the same med later,it will do no good,as the bacteria would have become immune from previous incorrect usage..but what concerned me here,and I'm only trying to be helpful is that I have spent many years around the medical field and time and time again,people try to do home remedies,self diagnosis,self medication etc. And the best thing to do is seek treatment .many things on the internet that I've seen have given people the wrong impression,bad or wrong advise and I know people meanwell,so I don't aim to put anyone down,but unless I have full knowledge medically,I never offer up advise that could put someone in danger or leave them misinformed.there are a lot of remedies and myths out there that aren't truthful or helpful and though people mean well,I've seen all too many times where they didn't know the right method to go about and cause others to repeat their act,and while it may work for one person possibly bc they don't infact have the same illness,it could be devastating to another should they follow that advise.please understand that I'm not trying to put anyone down,I just wanted to offer help that hopefully will encourage everyone to do what's best for their health and those others who read info online in search of answers.if any of you visit a doctor who isn't attentive to your concerns and doesn't explain things clearly and respectfully,remember,you can go somewhere else.would you take your car to only one mechanic if you felt they were cheating you or not being upfront??no!you would say,I'm going to get another estimate and leave,so don't settle for bad medical advise .our bodies are ours and a doctor is there to help,not hold his knowledge over our heads and make us feel we have no options or other choices or decisionmaking when it comes to our health.but in this case,I know a doctor wouldn't give the advise of peroxide and alcohol,while removing scabs,because it is wrong advise
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
Hi all, by the sounds of how similar all these stories are it is staff. It lives in everyone's nose and no strain is completely identical. When your immunity is low and you scratch your nose or blow it excessively the staff can get under your skin and spread. You will know it because your glands will swell and be sore. Be kind to yourselves with diet and sleep etc.
Do some research on options and try to keep it as natural as possible but realize you need medical help because if your not careful it can get very serious. This thing is the scourge of modern society due to toxins and stress with are pretty much the same thing.
Real green tea, good food, sleep even regular sex will help. Stay positive and good luck.

P.s. I am in the same situation including staff under my arms, in my groin, and on my bum! It *****, but I am fighting the good fight.
Helpful - 0
1 Comments
Hi! I have staph in my nose that doesnt go away even after several Treatments. I also have pain under my right arm, its like a burning sensation. My question to you is, how do you know you have staph under your arm? Can you see it? I ask because i wonder of i should put the cream in my nose and also u der my arms each time, or not. I am so tired of this now! Thank you
Avatar universal
I get a red painful nose occasionally. I believe it is a yeast/fungal infection because I also had that in my sinuses for 2 1/4 years. I control it successfully by taking Colloidal silver (10mls twice a day) and also spraying it on my nose. Doctors just wanted to give me anti-biotics which always made it worse.
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
Yesterday my right nostril was tender and the whole right side of my nose swollen. I have been swiping a triple antibiotic ointment in my nostril with a q-tip 2-3 times a day and the swelling and tenderness have greatly reduced. I believe it was some bacterial infection or staph/cellulitis. If after a day or two this doesn't work definitely see your doctor, as it could be serious.
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
wonder if that is same as medi-honey???
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
Mine has come and gone every few weeks for a few months now! Did you find a treatment for it?  
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
My daughter kicked me in the nose by accident playing and it cut the inside of my nose.   Two days of doctors not knowing why my face and head was swelling up landed me in the hospital.  In time.   Three days in the hospital on an IV.   It was a staph infection.  When admitted I looked like the elephant man and could not breath right.   Don't mess with it.
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
herpees! simplex or #3 take Valtrex (perscription) and AND antibiotic cuzz' staff is always a problem ... I am taking my 3rd course of valtrex and septosporin in the last 2 months. I used to get headaches and then ear infections , then antibiotcs. NOW with the valtrex I have been given a new lease on pain management and life
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
herpees! simplex or #3 take Valtrex (perscription) and AND antibiotic cuzz' staff is always a problem ... I am taking my 3rd course of valtrex and septosporin in the last 2 months. I used to get headaches and then ear infections , then antibiotcs. NOW with the valtrex I have been given a new lease on pain management and life
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
herpees! simplex or #3 take Valtrex (perscription) and AND antibiotic cuzz' staff is always a problem ... I am taking my 3rd course of valtrex and septosporin in the last 2 months. I used to get headaches and then ear infections , then antibiotcs. NOW with the valtrex I have been given a new lease on pain management and life
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
herpees! simplex or #3 take Valtrex (perscription) and AND antibiotic cuzz' staff is always a problem ... I am taking my 3rd course of valtrex and septosporin in the last 2 months. I used to get headaches and then ear infections , then antibiotcs. NOW with the valtrex I have been given a new lease on pain management and life!
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
I live in New Zealand and i've had problems with staph. I normally have active manuka honey on my toast :-) it supposed to be really healthy. although i've been told not to use it on wounds because it's not sterile. But we do have medical grade mauka honey, it's a natural antibiotic which is sold in pharmacies. i used it for a cut i once had and, yes, it is the best thing ever!! i couldn't belive how fast my cut healed. that's cool that you found it, because here not too many people know about medical honey either.  
Helpful - 0
Have an Answer?

You are reading content posted in the Ear, Nose & Throat Community

Didn't find the answer you were looking for?
Ask a question
Popular Resources
Think a loved one may be experiencing hearing loss? Here are five warning signs to watch for.
Discover the common causes of and treatments for a sore throat.
Learn about what actually causes your temperature to spike.
Find out which foods you should watch out for.
Family medicine doctor Enoch Choi, MD helps differentiate between the common cold and more threatening (bacterial) infections
Dr. Steven Park reveals 5 reasons why breathing through your nose could change your life