What Happens If You Let A Sinus Infection Go Untreated?

Left untreated, a sinus infection has the potential to spread to your meninges (the protective coverings around your brain and spinal cord), causing them to become inflamed — a condition called meningitis .

Has anyone ever died from a sinus infection?

One of these rare occurrences recently made the news: A 13-year-old boy from Michigan died after a persistent sinus infection made its way to the blood vessels inside his brain. Despite emergency surgery to control the infection, he died a few days after being admitted to hospital.

Can you die from a sinus infection?

Also in rare cases, sinus infections in the rear center of one's head can spread into the brain. This can lead to life-threatening conditions like meningitis or brain abscess, Dr. Sindwani says. “ Before antibiotics, people would die from sinusitis ,” he says.

Can sinus infections cause death?

If left undiagnosed and untreated complications of sinusitis can occur that may lead to severe medical problems and possibly death .

How do you know if a sinus infection is serious?

1. Swelling. If you experience swelling around your eyes, this can be a red flag for severe sinusitis. ...
2. Pain. When there is excessive pain in your eyes, ears, head or throat, you likely have a severe sinus infection. ...
3. Fever. ...
4. Feeling Disoriented. ...
5. A Persistent Infection.

Is Covid 19 like a sinus infection?

“COVID-19 causes more of a dry cough, loss of taste and smell, and, typically, more respiratory symptoms,” Melinda said. “ Sinusitis causes more discomfort in the face, congestion, nasal drip, and facial pressure.”

Why won't my sinus infection go away with antibiotics?

If your sinus infection just won't go away or keeps coming back, it may be time to see an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist . An ENT treats conditions of the ear, nose, throat, head, face, and neck. It may be time to see an ENT if: You've completed several courses of antibiotics without success.

Is VapoRub good for sinus infection?

Steam vapor alone can be soothing for an inflamed nose . Vicks VapoRub can be added to the steam and is the most famous example of this type of treatment. This involves the inhalation of anti-inflammatory vapors for the purpose of opening up the sinuses.

Is mucinex good for sinus infection?

For severe sinus congestion relief, turn to Maximum Strength* Mucinex ^® Sinus-Max ^® Severe Congestion Relief . It not only combines three maximum-strength medications, but can help relieve your headache and sinus congestion symptoms.

Can sinus infection spread to lungs?

Yes , acute bronchitis is usually caused by the same viruses that cause colds and the flu. The infection typically begins in the nose, the sinuses, or the throat and spreads to the bronchial tubes, where it causes inflammation when the body tries to fight the infection, Dr. Holguin explains.

When should I be concerned about a sinus infection?

The Mayo Clinic suggests making an appointment with your doctor if you notice the following: Your sinus infection lasts longer than a week . You have recurring sinus infections that do not respond to treatment. Your symptoms persist or worsen after you see your doctor.

Can you have a sinus infection for years?

Sinusitis symptoms that last for more than 12 weeks could be chronic sinusitis. In addition to frequent head colds, your risk for chronic sinusitis also goes up if you have allergies. “Chronic sinusitis can be caused by an allergy, virus, fungus, or bacteria and can go on for months or even years,” says Dr. Flores.

What are the stages of a sinus infection?

Acute sinusitis usually starts with cold-like symptoms such as a runny, stuffy nose and facial pain. It may start suddenly and last 2 to 4 weeks. Subacute sinusitus usually lasts 4 to 12 weeks. Chronic sinusitus symptoms last 12 weeks or longer.

What is the fastest way to get rid of a sinus infection?

1. Get Treatment. ...
2. Flush Your Sinuses. ...
3. Use a Medicated Over-the-Counter Nasal Spray. ...
4. Use a Humidifier. ...
5. Use Steam. ...
6. Drink Water. ...
7. Get Plenty of Rest. ...
8. Take Vitamin C.

How can you tell the difference between a cold and a sinus infection?

Clear, watery mucus is usually a sign of a cold. A sinus will often cause mucus to become thick and green or yellow in color. If you experience nasal discharge that is colored and have a difficult time blowing your nose, you may have a sinus infection.

How can I permanently cure sinusitis?

1. Intranasal corticosteroids. Intranasal corticosteroids reduce inflammation in the nasal passages. ...
2. Oral corticosteroids. Oral corticosteroids are pill medications that work like intranasal steroids. ...
3. Decongestants. ...
4. Saline irrigation. ...
5. Antibiotics. ...
6. Immunotherapy.