Q&A

Can a sinus infection kill you?

Can a sinus infection kill you?

An infection of the sinus cavity close to the brain can be life threatening, if not treated. In rare cases, it can spread to the brain.

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.

How do you know if a sinus infection is serious?

When a Sinus Infection May Be Dangerous

  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.

What are the dangers of a sinus infection?

The most dangerous condition that can result from a sinus infection is meningitis, an infection around the brain that causes swelling and pressure on the brain and the spinal cord. Meningitis is a serious condition that can result in death.

Why do I constantly get a sinus infection?

Causes of Recurring Sinus Infections. Viruses can be one of the causes of recurring sinus infections. Other causes include bacteria and allergies. Allergic people may be frequently exposed to certain allergens so they can frequently develop sinusitis. Infection of any part of the upper respiratory tract can cause recurrent sinusitis.

What are the signs of a sinus infection?

Sinus Infection: Sinus infections and sinusitis is a condition in which the sinuses become inflamed and/or infected. Sinus infection symptoms and signs include bad breath, runny or stuffy nose, or nasal congestion, facial pain and swelling, tooth pain, ringing in the ears, sinus headache, fever, sore throat and cough.

What are frequent sinus infections?

Frequent sinus infections often signify underlying inflammation in the nose and sinuses. This may happen in people with chronic allergies. There may be a structural reason for frequent sinus infections, such as polyps or a deviated septum, which blocks mucus from draining out of the sinuses.