How to relieve dizziness from sinusitis

Labyrinthitis is an inflammation of the inner ear, a region linked to the sense of balance. What many do not realize is that this condition can be caused by apparently unrelated conditions, especially infections in the upper respiratory tract. ^{1 2}

In this post, we will highlight the link between labyrinthitis and sinusitis, showing how inflammation in the paranasal sinuses can cause vertigo and instability. In addition, we will talk about how to relieve dizziness from sinusitis and treat other symptoms, especially to mitigate the incidence of these complications. ^{1 2}

Enjoy reading!

What is sinusitis?

Sinusitis is an inflammation of the paranasal sinuses, small cavities connected to the upper respiratory tract and lined by mucous membrane. These hollow spaces are located in the bones of the face and skull, serving different purposes, such as ^{1 3} :

• assist in filtering inhaled air;
• warm and humidify the air transported to the lungs;
• assist with voice resonance;
• reduce the weight of facial and cranial bones;
• form structures to accommodate and protect organs and tissues, including the ocular and respiratory systems.

In total, there are four pairs of sinuses. The most famous are the jaws, which are behind the cheekbones, one on each side. The others are the frontals, ethmoids and sphenoids. Respectively, they are located between the eyebrows and in the spaces between the nose and the upper and lower eyelids. ³

It is important to note that the sphenoid sinuses are more posterior than the other pairs. This means they are longer and more irregular, with nerves that extend internally to the depths of the temples. This factor can generate complications caused by sinusitis in other adjacent tissues. ³

Types of sinusitis

Before talking about how to relieve dizziness from sinusitis or even why it happens, it is important to highlight that inflammation can manifest itself in different ways. These conditions matter because they are directly linked to attacks of labyrinthitis, otitis media and many other similar problems. ¹

There are three main classifications. They are ¹ :

• acute sinusitis: generally caused by viruses and bacteria, it is a common inflammation during the coldest and driest months of the year, lasting a maximum of four weeks;
• chronic sinusitis: chronic sinusitis usually occurs as a result of allergic attacks, which means that your symptoms may come and go for a period of four to twelve weeks;
• Unilateral or bilateral sinusitis: As mentioned, each type of sinus is present on both sides of the face. So, depending on the cause, sinusitis can affect both or just one of them.

What are the symptoms of sinusitis?

The main symptoms of sinusitis are ¹ :

• blocked and runny nose;
• phlegm with an opaque, greenish or yellowish appearance;
• headaches;
• pain in the upper jaw and cheekbones;
• pressure in the face;
• temporary loss of smell;
• difficulty breathing;
• tiredness and fatigue;
• fever;
• cough;

The condition can be more serious and debilitating in children, as well as in adults with low immunity. In the first group, this is due to the immune system being still immature and unable to prevent the action of certain pathogens. For the second, the problem may be inadequate drug treatment or another health condition that acts to suppress the immune response. ¹

Sinusitis causes nausea and dizziness? Why does it happen?

Sinusitis can cause symptoms such as nausea and dizziness. As mentioned, inflammation can spread to nearby tissues and reach the labyrinth, a region of the inner ear that helps maintain balance. In itself, labyrinthitis can cause nausea, but it is worth pointing out that respiratory infections also impact the digestive tract, especially when they produce phlegm.  ^{1 2}

In addition to this mechanism, other complaints can cause this discomfort. Among them, it is worth highlighting headache, difficulty breathing and the feeling of pressure under the face.   ^{1 2}

How to relieve dizziness from sinusitis?

To relieve dizziness from sinusitis, it is recommended to rest and stay hydrated. These measures reduce discomfort and help prevent accidents. Symptoms generally indicate that the inner ear is infected. Therefore, drug treatment may include antibiotics, corticosteroids and antiallergics, depending on the general characteristics of the condition.  ^{1 2}

Corticosteroids control the inflammatory process caused by the immune system and, consequently, reduce swelling. Depending on the origin of the problem, common antiallergic and anti-inflammatories also contribute to this improvement.  ^{1 2}

Antibiotics, as usual, are only used if the doctor suspects a bacterial infection.  ^{1 2}

How long does a person have sinusitis?

As explained, the duration of acute sinusitis can last up to four weeks. On the other hand, chronic sinusitis can surpass this mark and reach twelve weeks. Furthermore, if the infection is not properly fought by the body, it can come and go, causing several crises throughout life. ¹

How to relieve sinusitis symptoms fast?

To alleviate sinusitis, treatment may combine measures to drain accumulated phlegm, use of medications via nasal or oral spray, antibiotics, only for bacterial sinusitis, and even surgery. ¹

Surgical intervention, carried out to wash infected sinuses, is only indicated for more serious and long-lasting conditions, especially when antibiotics do not bring satisfactory results. ¹

In the case of acute sinusitis, the use of corticosteroids, anti-inflammatories and antiseptic spray solutions can help alleviate your complaints. The mechanism of action of each class varies greatly, serving to deswell the nasal mucosa, reduce irritation from the inflammatory process or assist in cleaning and removing phlegm. ¹

Oral antiallergics and decongestants are indicated for sinusitis after the flu or chronic manifestations of the disease, although they are also useful for acute conditions.  ¹

In general, they aim to alleviate adverse reactions from the immune system and keep inflammation under control, in addition to reducing the sensation of itching and irritation in the airways.  ¹

Considering the likelihood of acute inflammation following the flu or cold, anti-flu medications, which combine analgesic, antipyretic and anti-allergic action, are also used in this treatment. ¹

Finally, it is worth mentioning non-drug measures to deal with the situation, stop crises and increase the chances of quick relief. They are ¹ :

• nasal wash with saline solution;
• steam inhalation or nebulization with saline solution;
• adjustment of the resting position, leaving the head elevated in relation to the rest of the body;
• consumption of hot foods and drinks, such as soups and teas.

This concludes the post. We hope you enjoyed the content and answered your questions. Stay tuned to the blog for more guides and information like this. To the next!

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