Sinus infection can cause different annoying symptoms. If not treated on time, the health woes can continue for months and, sometimes, culminate in complications. Sinusitis or sinus infection refers to swelling or inflammation of the air-filled cavities or sinuses. When the sinuses become blocked with fluid or other substances, the risk of infection increases due to the growth of germs. You can blame this on viruses, bacteria, and fungi. Fungus is still a relatively uncommon factor in this area. The condition can worsen due to allergies, colds, and a deviated septum, creating an ideal environment for bacterial growth. Viral infections usually clear within 10 days, whereas bacterial-led sinusitis persists longer.
Signs of a bacterial sinus infection include recurring symptoms and greenish nasal discharge. Nevertheless, sinusitis can be chronic or acute. Acute sinus infections cause a stuffy nose, facial aches, and other symptoms that last for about four weeks. Chronic conditions can extend to 12 weeks despite trying everything. Receiving the proper treatment is essential to determine whether it is acute or chronic. It will also help identify the immediate source of infection, such as viruses, bacteria, and fungi. You can visit https://drkhliment.com.sg for help. If you avoid medical intervention, you may be exposing yourself to serious health risks.
The potential impact of untreated sinusitis on overall health
ENT specialists warn of multiple types of hidden risks of not treating sinus infections. Here is a quick look at a few of them.
Smell impairment
Not treating sinusitis can impair your sense of smell by affecting the olfactory receptors located in the upper nasal passages. These receptors detect scents. However, a sinus infection can cause inflammation or blockage in this area, hampering their ability to function correctly. Some people may permanently lose their sense of smell. You must know that nasal sprays don’t treat this problem. The risk of permanent damage still looms. To avoid this, you must opt for proper treatment.
Worsening of the infection
Lingering sinus infection symptoms can be dangerous, as other body parts can also become infected. The skull base, brain, and eyes are particularly vulnerable in this case. If they are infected, you can develop meningitis, a brain abscess, orbital cellulitis, and other complications. Hence, get yourself checked on time. Your ENT can recommend a suitable antibiotic if it is bacterial sinusitis. However, intravenous antibiotics are administered when the eye sockets or skull cavity are affected. One may require surgery if there is a buildup of pus in the brain.
Meningitis
While rare, untreated sinusitis also poses the risk of meningitis in patients. Meningitis affects the protective layers around your brain and spinal cord. Symptoms may include fever, stiff neck, confusion, and a severe headache. In this case, patients are typically given antibiotics and may also be recommended for surgery.
Bone inflammation
When the frontal sinuses, located in the front part of the skull, become infected, severe complications such as osteomyelitis can occur. This life-threatening disease affects the bones.
Seeking treatment for sinus infection on time
The best way to preserve your health is to seek medical attention before the situation worsens. When should you visit your ENT? Watch out for signs such as the severity of the headache or facial pain, recurring symptoms, health issues lasting over ten days and not improving, contracting sinusitis multiple times a year, a fever not vanishing even after 3 to 4 days, etc.
A sinus infection can be effectively treated or managed under the guidance of a qualified ENT specialist. You can feel safe and healthy by seeking professional care. Please don’t hesitate to make an appointment.
