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Sinusitis is an infection of the nasal and sinus cavities, usually caused by a virus or allergy. If not treated appropriately, it causes these cavities to swell and become inflamed, allowing bacteria to thrive in the mucous which lines the cavities. When one is diagnosed with sinusitis, it usually means a visit to the doctor, a prescription to fill, and perhaps a few days off work. Although it may be very uncomfortable, the infection is usually harmless. However, if sinusitis is not treated, or if the treatment is not effective, it can develop serious complications.

There are several warning signs which should alert one that they may be developing a more serious case of sinusitis. Many of these involve the eye because this is a common site for complications. These signs may include eye pain, swelling and redness around the eyelid, severe headache, high fever (over 102.5), nausea or vomiting, and seizures.

There are also some factors which may predispose one for complications. These include having a compromised immune system, as with HIV or other illness treated with immunosuppressant’s, diabetes mellitus, or having an irregular or inadequate treatment with antibiotics. Sinus infections caused by fungus can be very serious as well as difficult to treat for those with these problems.

One complication which can arise from sinusitis is Osteomyelitis. For some unknown reason, this is found more often in males with an infection in their frontal sinuses. With this type of problem, the infection spreads to the bones in the forehead. One who has this illness usually experiences headache, fever, and swelling over the bone that is infected. This is sometimes called Pott’s puffy tumour.

Another serious complication which can come from infected frontal sinuses is the formation of a blood clot in the area. This clot can also be infected with bacteria and may move to the brain. An infection of the sinuses can also do damage to the veins which surround them, leading to disruption of the blood flow to the brain. This can lead to the development of an aneurysm, or can put one at risk of having a stroke, both which could be fatal.

An additional problem which may develop from a sinusitis infection is an infection of the eye socket, called Ethmoid Sinusitis. It is rare, but very serious. There are several sinus cavities surrounding the eye, and when infected, they can cause problems ranging from swelling and drooping of the eyelid to an abscess causing pressure on the optic nerve, resulting in temporary or permanent blindness. One with this infection will usually have a fever, will be seriously ill, and will need treatment immediately.

Some doctors believe that sinusitis may also be related to asthma. They have several theories regarding this. Some feel that when breathing through the mouth because of blocked sinuses, one may breathe in particles which could trigger an asthma attack. Some also believe that with congested sinuses one may breathe in cold air, which will not be warmed by the nasal cavity, and cold air is another trigger for asthma. It is therefore very important that those who have asthma get immediate treatment when they develop a sinus infection.

The most serious complications of sinusitis occur when the infection which was originally centred in the sinus and nasal cavities spreads to other parts of the body, especially the brain, through the bones and blood vessels. When the bacteria reach the brain, it can result in meningitis, headache, personality changes, and respiratory problems. If not treated, the infection will continue until it results in seizures, coma, and finally death.

As can be seen, although they are rare, there are several complications which can arise from a sinus infection. However, most of these can be avoided by keeping one’s immune system as strong as possible, and if symptoms of sinusitis do appear, by going to their physician for treatment as soon as possible.

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