Sinus Infection Symptoms: Dizziness

Sinus infections, which affect 35 million Americans a year, can produce many different symptoms depending on the individual. Many people experience headaches, ear pain and dizziness. There are many ways to treat and care for a sinus infection and deal with dizziness at the same time. Each person reacts differently to a sinus infection so it is important to visit your doctor if you suspect you have a sinus infection.

Facts

• The sinuses are located directly behind the eyes and ears and between both ears. They are large, empty cavities that filter out any unwanted airborne particles from entering the lungs. A thin mucus layer constantly covers the sinuses and catches the unwanted particles. During a sinus infection, the sinus cavity swells and over-produces mucus causing pressure to build in and around the nasal passages. As the pressure builds it can cause nausea and dizziness.

Symptoms

• Not all dizziness is caused by a sinus infection. Dizziness can be a sign of a more complex medical issue, so it is advisable that you talk with your doctor. Dizziness that is caused by a sinus infection will have symptoms accompanying the dizziness such as sinus pressure, nasal discharge, headache, fever and chills. If these basic symptoms are not present and you are dizzy, see a doctor as soon as possible.

Treatment

• The most common treatment for a sinus infection and dizziness is to kill the infection with prescribed antibiotics and alleviate the dizziness with an over-the-counter antihistamine called diphenhydramine. Diphenhydramine is used as an allergy aid under the brand name of Benadryl and is also used for dizziness and nausea under the brand name Dramamine. A doctor may also recommend taking an over-the-counter decongestant to help reduce the swelling in the sinus cavity and return to its normal, healthy and functional state.

Prevention

• At the first sign of nasal congestion, take an over-the-counter decongestant for 3 days. After 3 days, the symptoms of any sinus irritation to subside. If you have allergies that cause irritation of the sinus cavity, you should take a daily over-the-counter allergy pill to prevent the allergic reaction from getting out of hand and ending in a sinus infection. Maintain a healthy immune system by drinking a least six 8-ounce glasses of water daily, eating a well-balanced meal and getting 8 hours of sleep a night.

Complications

• If you are experiencing dizziness as a result of a sinus infection, the infection can easily spread to the ear. Pain in the ear will result and you will need prescribed antibiotics to clear up the ear infection as well. If the dizziness persists, take caution as you may not want to drive or operate heavy machinery. A sinus infection can potentially spread into the eyes, throat and chest if not properly treated with medication.