A sinus infection, medically known as sinusitis, is a common condition where the cavities around your nasal passages become inflamed. These infections can lead to feelings of dizziness or unsteadiness, impacting a person’s sense of balance. Understanding this link can help clarify why some individuals experience dizziness during a sinus infection.
The Sinus-Dizziness Connection
Dizziness from a sinus infection relates to the anatomy of the head, specifically the close proximity of the sinuses to the inner ear and Eustachian tubes. Eustachian tubes are small passages connecting the middle ear to the back of the nose, equalizing air pressure and draining fluid. When a sinus infection causes inflammation and congestion, these tubes can block or experience pressure, leading to an imbalance of pressure in the middle and inner ear.
The inner ear houses the vestibular system, responsible for maintaining balance and spatial orientation. When Eustachian tube dysfunction causes pressure changes, the vestibular system can be affected, leading to lightheadedness, unsteadiness, or vertigo. Inflammation from the infection can also directly irritate nearby nerves, contributing to balance disturbances. Additionally, mucus buildup in the sinuses creates pressure that extends to the ears, causing fullness and impacting balance regulation.
Accompanying Sinus Infection Symptoms
When experiencing dizziness, recognizing other common signs of a sinus infection helps determine if it is the underlying cause. Sinus infections frequently present with facial pain or pressure, especially around the eyes, forehead, and cheeks, often worsening when bending forward. Nasal symptoms include congestion, making breathing difficult, and thick, discolored nasal discharge, which can be yellow or green.
Other indicators of a sinus infection include a reduced sense of smell and taste, a cough often triggered by postnasal drip (mucus dripping down the back of the throat), and bad breath. Individuals might also experience headache, ear pressure or pain, and fatigue. These collective symptoms help differentiate a sinus infection from other conditions causing dizziness.
When to Seek Professional Medical Advice
While dizziness from a sinus infection is often temporary and resolves as the infection clears, there are instances when medical attention becomes important. Consult a healthcare professional if dizziness is severe, persistent, or significantly interferes with daily activities. This is especially true if accompanied by a high fever, confusion, or vision changes like blurriness or double vision.
Other concerning symptoms warranting immediate medical evaluation include a stiff neck, sudden severe headaches, or swelling and redness around the eyes. If typical sinus infection symptoms, including dizziness, do not improve after 7 to 10 days, or worsen after initial improvement, it may indicate a bacterial infection needing antibiotics. A healthcare provider can accurately diagnose the cause of the symptoms and recommend appropriate treatment, addressing any serious underlying conditions.