A sinus infection, or sinusitis, occurs when the air-filled cavities in your skull become inflamed, usually due to a viral, bacterial, or fungal infection. While common symptoms include nasal congestion, facial pain, and headaches, some individuals also experience dizziness and blurred vision. These symptoms can be linked to pressure and inflammation within the sinuses affecting nearby structures.
The Link Between Sinuses and Dizziness
The sinuses are closely connected to the inner ear, which maintains balance and spatial orientation. When a sinus infection causes inflammation and congestion, pressure builds within these cavities. This increased pressure can then extend to the inner ear, affecting the vestibular system responsible for equilibrium.
The Eustachian tubes, narrow passages connecting the middle ear to the back of the throat, also become blocked due to sinus inflammation and mucus buildup. This blockage can lead to fluid accumulation and pressure changes within the middle ear, disrupting the ear’s ability to regulate pressure. Such disruptions can result in lightheadedness, unsteadiness, or a sensation that the room is spinning, known as vertigo.
The Link Between Sinuses and Blurred Vision
The sinuses are located in close proximity to the eyes. When these sinuses become inflamed during an infection, swelling and pressure can exert force on surrounding nerves and tissues, including those near the eyes. This pressure can manifest as eye strain, temporary blurry vision, or a feeling of pressure behind the eyes.
In very rare and severe instances, an untreated sinus infection can spread to the eye socket, leading to orbital cellulitis. This can cause symptoms such as eyelid swelling, pain with eye movement, bulging of the eyeball, and significant vision changes, including potential vision loss. Another rare complication is optic neuritis, where inflammation from the sinuses affects the optic nerve, potentially leading to blurred vision, reduced visual acuity, or temporary vision loss.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While many sinus infection symptoms resolve with home care, certain signs warrant prompt medical evaluation. Seek medical attention if dizziness or blurred vision is persistent or worsens. Severe headaches, particularly if sudden or unusual, or vision changes such as double vision, sudden vision loss, or altered color perception, are also concerning.
Other indicators for seeking medical care include swelling around the eyes or face, high fever lasting longer than three to four days, stiff neck, confusion, or extreme fatigue. Symptoms that do not improve after approximately ten days of typical sinus infection treatment should also be addressed by a healthcare provider. Consulting a doctor helps rule out other conditions that can cause dizziness or blurred vision and ensures appropriate treatment for the sinus infection or any related complications.