See a doctor if you have: Severe symptoms, such as severe headache or facial pain. Symptoms that get worse after improving. Symptoms lasting more than 10 days without getting better.
Very rarely, untreated sinus infections can lead to life-threatening infections. This happens if bacteria or fungi spread to your brain, eyes or nearby bone.
Untreated sinusitis allows bacteria and other harmful pathogens to enter the bloodstream and travel all throughout the body, leading to the following potentially life-threatening conditions. Meningitis develops when infection targets the brain or spinal fluid. It requires immediate medical attention.
If your symptoms aren't improving after one week, it's important to see your doctor. If a bacterial infection is suspected, you'll probably need to take an antibiotic to clear up the infection and prevent further complications.
You doctor may recommend antibiotics if: You have symptoms of a bacterial infection and you have not gotten better after 10 days, even with home treatment. Your symptoms are severe, or you have other problems, such as pus forming in your sinus cavities.
Undoubtedly with a sinus infection, there is going to be some pressure and discomfort, but if the pain gets severe, it is time to see a doctor. A sinus infection becomes very serious if there is severe pain in the eyes, throat, ears, or head. The infection can easily spread to create an eye or ear infection.
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. Meningitis gives rise to the following signs and symptoms: Sudden, high-grade fever. Neck stiffness.
If the condition lasts longer than ten days, or there is a worsening of symptoms after five to seven days, the sinusitis is more likely caused by bacteria than a virus.
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.
Getting plenty of rest and staying hydrated are also essential as the body recovers. If people have symptoms of a sinus infection for longer than 7–10 days or any severe symptoms, they can see their doctor for further treatment.
Saline nasal irrigation, with nasal sprays or solutions, reduces drainage and rinses away irritants and allergies. Oral or injected corticosteroids. These medications are used to relieve inflammation from severe sinusitis, especially if you also have nasal polyps.
Conclusively, brain abscesses can be caused by local spread from an infection of the paranasal sinus. The contribution of imaging modality is very significant not only for the early diagnosis but also for the therapeutic management of such cases.
Sinusitis is inflammation of any of the four sinus cavities behind the face. Commonly referred to as a sinus infection, if left untreated this condition can lead to sepsis, a life-threatening complication.
Symptoms can include headache, fever, changes in consciousness, confusion, neck stiffness, vomiting, seizures, weakness, trouble moving, and changes in vision. Treatment is with strong antibiotics, sometimes along with other medicines, such as steroids, and drugs to prevent seizures.
Sinus infections can be the reason you end up in an ER near you. The infection can cause many health problems, some more threatening than others. Without urgent treatment in an ER near you, chronic sinus infections can become unbearable and cause a major wreck in your life.
Endoscopic Sinus Surgery
Sinus surgery using a nasal endoscope is the most commonly recommended procedure for people with chronic sinusitis. The surgeon uses the same type of thin endoscope used during the diagnostic exam. This procedure requires no visible incisions, is performed under general anesthesia.
Your symptoms will usually pass within two or three weeks (acute sinusitis) and you can look after yourself at home. If the condition is severe, gets worse, or doesn't improve (chronic sinusitis), you may need additional treatment from your GP or a hospital specialist.
Viral sinus infections are usually the worst 3 to 6 days after they start, and then begin to get better by day 10.
Imaging studies — a computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) test can show any complications in the structure of the nose that is causing your sinusitis. Nasal and sinus cultures — if your condition is worsening, a culture can determine the cause of the infection.
As your body works hard to fight off the sinus infection, you'll feel more tired than usual. Fatigue can be also be caused by head pain, a lack of adequate sleep, and difficulty breathing due to sinusitis.
Do: Go to School or Work. If you're worried that you may spread sinusitis to classmates or co-workers, breathe easy. It isn't contagious. Go back to your normal activities if you feel well enough.