I have had a sinus problem for the last two weeks and have been treating it with over-the-counter decongestants. This morning I feel dizzy when I lean over and bring my head up quickly. Could this be related to my sinus problem?
Two weeks is more than ample time for the problem to resolve itself. It’s time to call your doctor and find out if your sinus problem has blossomed into a bacterial infection that requires antibiotic treatment.
The term “sinusitis” means an inflammation of the sinuses, which are the openings in the bones above and below the eyes. Sinusitis often strikes after a cold or allergy attack. When the sinuses swell up, they sometimes get clogged, preventing the drainage of mucus out the nose. A bacterial infection may occur when the mucus pools up and bacteria begin to breed at a rapid rate.
As to your dizziness, I can’t say for certain what’s causing it. It very well could be the sinusitis. The lack of mucus drainage can bring about a buildup of pressure, which can make you feel dizzy. Some people can almost feel the fluid sloshing around when they lean forward and tilt their heads sharply up and down.
Besides dizziness, other symptoms of a sinus infection may include headache, facial pain and swelling, fatigue, fever, coughing, and a yellow, green or gray-green nasal discharge.
If it turns out that you do have an infection, you may be prescribed antibiotics for 10 to 14 days. Even when you start to feel better, take the entire course of medication to ensure that the bacteria are eliminated. Use self-care methods simultaneously, such as drinking lots and lots of fluids, using a humidifier, inhaling steam and using saline (salt water) nasal sprays.
In the future, try these self-care methods during the cold. Perhaps it will help prevent sinusitis.