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Have you ever noticed yourself becoming dizzy and disoriented even though the rest of your body seems perfectly fine? At most, you feel that your nose is stuffier than normal and more difficult to clear out.
However, both of these symptoms point to a serious sinus infection. But you may wonder, can a sinus infection cause dizziness? And if so, why doesn’t a stuffy nose cause the same thing every time you get a cold?
Here’s what you should know about your sinus passages and the side effects you can suffer if they get out of order.
Can a Sinus Infection Cause Dizziness?
Having a sinus infection on its own does not necessarily mean you’ll feel side effects like dizziness or nausea. However, it does mean that it can cause them if left untreated.
The reason is that acute or chronic sinus infections block your sinus passages and cause fluid build-up in your sinus cavity and your ears. The pressure in your sinus cavity can cause headaches. As for your eardrums, it will affect your vestibular labyrinth and cause a dizzying sensation.
Without treatment, this infection can also spread into your ears and cause an ear infection.
Common Causes of Sinus Infections
There are many ways you may develop a sinus infection, ranging from irritants to invasive bacteria.
Most infections begin with a cold, which is caused by a virus. Viruses can’t be treated with antibiotics, as these only help kill bacteria. Instead, you’ll need to treat the symptoms until your body can fend it off.
You may also be more prone to sinus infections based on your medical history, such as any allergies you have or your nasal anatomy. Structural problems in your nose can obstruct the flow of mucus and cause it to back up in your sinuses.
When to Seek Medical Attention
The second you start to feel any kind of dizziness, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible. The last thing you want is for that infection to spread to your eardrums or into the outer layer of your brain.
Once you visit the doctor, they can run some tests to determine the source of your dizziness or vertigo. They may be able to use non-invasive procedures to help drain your sinuses and reduce that pressure.
If your symptoms are presenting due to a bacterial infection, then antibiotics will help greatly. Your doctor may also recommend or prescribe a nasal spray with xylitol in it, which moisturizes and soothes your sinus and nasal passages.
Keep in mind that you may deal with uncommon side effects such as digestive issues, like gas or bloating.
Stay on Top of Your Symptoms
When all is said and done, can a sinus infection cause dizziness? Yes, and it can also cause much more serious symptoms and effects if it’s left undiagnosed and untreated. It’s all too easy to make an appointment with your doctor to get set up with medications that can alleviate your discomfort.
