Wednesday, March 13, 2024

Can Sinus Infection Cause Extreme Fatigue

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Pain Tenderness Or Pressure Around The Face

Can Sinusitis cause yellowish mass in nose & throat with fatigue? – Dr. Sriram Nathan

Some people believe that our sinuses are only in the nose. However, these sacs spread out around the entire nasal area and cover the space from the lower forehead all the way to the front of the cheekbones.

Because they cover a good portion of the face, you could feel pain all over this area. As mucus accumulates in the nasal passages, it may push on your nerves. As a result, you may feel tenderness, pressure, or heaviness in your face.

Miserable Symptoms Mark Chronic Sinusitis

Chronic sinusitis, an illness that can feel as symptomatically miserable as congestive heart failure or rheumatoid arthritis, is often misdiagnosed or underdiagnosed. But distinctive clues can lead internists to deliver the right treatment.

Chronic sinusitis, an illness that can feel as symptomatically miserable as congestive heart failure or rheumatoid arthritis, is often misdiagnosed or underdiagnosed.

I recently saw a patient who had been diagnosed with allergic rhinitis for the past 14 months. You just had to look at her to know that she was miserable. She had bags under her eyes, she hadn’t been sleeping well, and she had been waking up three and four times a night because her nose was so blocked up. She had seen an allergist and two internists in that time who never considered that it could be chronic sinusitis, said Neil Bhattacharyya, MD, associate professor of otology and laryngology at Harvard Medical School.

Not picking up on the distinctive clues that point to chronic sinusitis can lead to misdiagnosis. An internist may label a condition allergic rhinitis because allergies are more common, but the treatment and the outcomes are completely different. The problem that confronts internists is understanding how to determine which subset of patients with sinonasal symptoms truly have chronic sinusitis or have that in conjunction with other conditions, Dr. Bhattacharyya said.

How Do I Prevent Chronic Sinusitis

You may be able to prevent infections and chronic sinusitis if you:

  • Treat the underlying conditions behind chronic sinusitis, like asthma and allergies.
  • Avoid allergens such as animal dander, dust, pollen, smoke and mold that trigger swelling in the sinuses.
  • Quit smoking if you do smoke and avoid any secondhand smoke.
  • Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
  • Rinse your nasal passages with saline solution, either purchased or with a neti pot.
  • Eat healthy foods, stay hydrated and exercise regularly to stay healthy overall.
  • Use a humidifier to keep nasal tissues moist.

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What Causes Chronic Sinusitis

Chronic sinusitis is usually the result of the sinuses being unable to drain and receive airflow properly. Certain underlying issues make chronic sinusitis more likely allergies are one of the most common issues that lead to chronic sinusitis because of the constant and severe inflammation they can cause. Treating allergies can usually help relieve sinusitis symptoms. A deviated septum, nasal polyps, and a history of having frequent colds can also contribute to the likelihood and worsening of chronic sinus problems.

Can A Sinus Infection Make Your Whole Body Hurt

Sinus fatigue cure, relieve your respiratory symptoms with ...

Now, new research suggests that chronic sinus problems may be linked to body pain and fatigue. People with chronic sinusitis have about 24 percent more bodily pain than the average personbodily pain very similar to those who are 35 years older those with arthritis and depression, says Alexander C.

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Is A Hidden Infection Causing Your Chronic Fatigue

  • Is a Hidden Infection Causing
  • Does tired not even begin to explain how exhausted you feel every day?

    Are you suffering from unrelenting fatigue that interferes with your ability to get through the day?

    Can a tooth infection cause you to feel tired?

    Perhaps youve even tried seeking help from your doctor and still arent getting any answers.

    If this sounds like you, you are not alone. This is the reality for millions of people struggling with chronic fatigue syndrome.

    While science still doesnt have all the answers when it comes to this disorder, research has found that chronic fatigue may, in fact, be a symptom of a more serious underlying issue. More and more research is finding that chronic fatigue syndrome may be the result of a hidden infection overworking your immune system and robbing you of your energy.

    Decreased Sense Of Smell And Taste

    Congested sinuses will also affect your sense of smell. Breathing through your nose will be difficult, and you will be unable to smell as well as you usually do. Your sense of smell affects your ability to taste. While you will likely still be able to tell salty apart from sweet, food may taste somewhat bland when you have a sinus infection.

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    Types Of Sinus Infections

    There are 3 different types of sinus infections that people can develop. Each one having a different duration of how long it lasts, and the severity ranges between them as well.

    The 3 different types of sinus infections are the following:

    1. Acute Sinusitis

    This type of sinus infection has the shortest duration, typically only lasting about 1-2 weeks, and is typically brought on by the common cold.

    2. Subacute Sinusitis

    This type of sinus infection can last up to 3 months, and is typically brought on due to seasonal allergies.

    3. Chronic Sinusitis

    Finally, this type of sinus infection lasts longer than 3 months, and although it can be irritating, bothersome, and painful at times, it is often a less severe form of sinusitis.

    Now that weve learned about the different types of sinus infections out there, lets discuss the symptoms that may come along with them.

    Ph: Tell Us About Your Health Story

    Sinusitis & Fatigue

    I am usually very healthy and active. However, since moving to NYC I tended to get sick around the same time every year . In 2015, I got sick and never got better. I had headaches, intense sinus pressure, and fatigue. I later found out, that much of this fatigue was due to work-related stress.

    I saw three GPs, five specialists, had X-rays, CAT scans, MRIs and even an operation on my sinuses and nothing helped. Because each specialist was treating me in their specialized area, vs. connecting the dots and looking at the bigger picture, none of them were improving my quality of life. It was like the healthcare version of pass the buck.

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    Lack Of Smell And Taste

    Sinus congestion will often impact your sense of smell. Because breathing through your nose becomes difficult, you wont be able to smell like you usually do. Your sense of smell informs your sense of taste, so while you will most likely be able to tell apart major ingredients, like salty instead of sweet, food will probably taste fairly bland for you while your sinuses are infected.

    What Are The Symptoms Of Sinus Infections

    Just like any illness, symptoms for sinus infections range depending on who you are and how your body works and reacts to the infection. However, there are a few symptoms that are very common with sinus infections. Although not everyone gets these specific symptoms, and some people get these plus other symptoms not on the list. In other words, these are typical symptoms that come with a sinus infection.

    Theyre symptoms you should ask yourself if you have if you suspect you might have a sinus infection. These infection symptoms include:

  • Pain in the face, head, sinuses, back of eyes, ears, and/or forehead
  • Congestion or runny nose
  • Difficulty sleeping
  • If you are exhibiting signs , ask your doctor about it as soon as youre able to.

    Now, since weve discussed some common symptoms of sinus infections, lets now discuss the second part of what were here to talk about and find out about today.

    Mental illness, and a sinus infection. How are they connected? Lets find out now, starting with anxiety.

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    How Can You Tell The Difference Between Chronic Sinusitis And Other Issues Like Migraine Headaches

    You probably cant tell the difference between all of these things. So, in cases where you have a constant headache, or facial pain, or tooth pain, you should call your healthcare provider to get a diagnosis. This is especially true if you have tried different therapies and have not been able to find relief. Your primary healthcare provider might even find it difficult to diagnose you properly and might suggest you see a specialist. This would be an otolaryngologist, commonly called an ear, nose and throat doctor.

    Can Sinusitis Make You Feel Ill

    Are There Specific Causes of Nasal Congestion?

    Sinusitis causes a lot of mucus production, and a person may find they are unable to clear the sinuses no matter how often they blow their nose. Fighting a sinus infection demands energy from the body, so it is common to feel fatigued. Some people feel exhausted because they cannot breathe easily or are in pain.

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    Is My Sinus Infection Making Me Tired

    You feel worn-out, no matter how much sleep you get. Youre sluggish throughout the day. On top of that, every little thing seems to bug you. So whats going on? In some cases surprisingly it might be sinus infection fatigue.

    Sinus infections, or sinusitis, have long been associated with chronic fatigue syndrome, a health condition in which no amount of sleep seems to keep you your normal, alert self.

    Sometimes, the fatigue that comes with a sinus infection can be extreme, and other sinusitis symptoms can lead to trouble sleeping, making the situation worse.

    If you know youre dealing with a sinus infection or if you just cant shake that tired feeling get the advice of a doctor. There are certain home remedies, medicines and surgical options that could offer help.

    In the meantime, if youre trying to get some much-needed shuteye while dealing with a sinus infection, here are some tips.

    • Sleep on your back, propped up with a few pillows. Elevating your head and neck can help your sinuses drain easier.
    • Use a humidifier. Dry air can worsen sinusitis symptoms, so keep those moisture levels up.
    • Try herbal teas. Caffeine-free teas like chamomile, eucalyptus and lavender can soothe you and your sinuses. Plus, inhaling a bit of steam from your cup can help loosen your nasal passages.
    • Resist technology. It can be tempting to jump on your phone, tablet or laptop when your symptoms are preventing you from sleeping, but the light can disrupt your system and keep you up longer.

    What Is Chronic Sinusitis

    When swelling causes sinus issues to occur on a long-term or frequent basis, a patient is diagnosed with chronic sinusitis. Common symptoms of sinusitis include a chronic cough, constant post-nasal drainage, headaches or facial pressure, a stuffy nose, and fatigue.

    Chronic sinusitis is different from a one-off sinus infection, and these chronic sinus problems need to be treated with specialized methods. Medications, allergy treatments and minor sinus surgery procedures are the most common and effective ways to help chronic sinus issues.

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    Fighting Fatigue Get A Better Life

    Take Stock, Set Priorities, Take Care of Yourself

    Feeling tired, zapped of energy? You’re not the Lone Ranger.

    Doctors see it all the time: “Women with four kids, a full-time job, and they get up at 5 to get everybody ready for the day. Their lives are very hectic, they only get four hours of sleep. They expect their bodies to do more than is realistic for one person,” says Sharon Horesh, MD, primary care specialist with the Emory Clinic in Atlanta.

    Fatigue has many origins. For women, anemia brought on by heavy menstrual cycles may cause fatigue. An underactive thyroid also causes fatigue. A cold, sinus infection, or virus can drag you out — even for three or four weeks.

    But all too often, you’re not taking care of yourself. It’s as simple, and as difficult, as that.

    “The first thing I ask is, ‘What time do you go to bed? When do you wake up? What’s your day like?'” Horesh tells WebMD. As trite as it may sound, you need to sleep more, eat healthy, take care of yourself — “commonsense things,” she says. “It’s not a medical problem, it’s a lifestyle issue.”

    What Is Depression Can A Chronic Sinus Infection Cause Depression

    Can Sinusitis cause dizziness and light headedness? – Dr. Sriram Nathan

    Depression is a mental health disorder that causes a persistently depressed mood and/or loss of interest in activities. Lots of people believe depression is just being persistently sad, but its much more than that. Its very deep sadness, while also feeling numb, with nothing bringing you joy, and having a lack of motivation to do anything. Depression is a mental disorder than some people find hard to deal with, but like anxiety, its not impossible.

    Now that weve talked about what depression is, lets answer the main question at hand. Can a chronic sinus infection cause depression?

    Well, the truth is, chronic anything can cause depression. When it comes to chronic illnesses, no matter what type of illness, it is possible that it will cause depression, and this is no exception.

    This doesnt mean that if you have a chronic sinus infection, you will automatically develop depression. This just means its more likely you will develop depression when you have a chronic sinus infection, or any chronic infection or illnesses, as when you deal with something that is possibly very painful and bothersome, it is likely you will develop depression.

    Now that weve talked all about the possible effects a sinus infection can have on a person, both physically as well as mentally and emotionally, lets discuss what you can do about a sinus infection, and how you can possibly lessen the severity of your symptoms, and what you can do to get your body through it easier.

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    What Is Acute Sinusitis

    Acute sinusitis is a short-term inflammation of the sinuses, most often including a sinus infection. The sinuses are four paired cavities in the head. They are connected by narrow channels. The sinuses make thin mucus that drains out of the channels of the nose, cleaning the nose. Typically filled with air, the sinuses can become blocked by fluid and swell from irritation. When this happens, they can become infected.

    When Should I Call My Healthcare Provider About Sinusitis

    Though many cases of acute sinusitis can improve with little to no treatment, you should call the doctor if you experience any painful symptoms. An antibiotic may be needed for a bacterial infection.

    If you find that your sinuses do not feel better after 10 days, symptoms have gotten worse, or you have symptoms that initially improved and then worsen five to six days later , you should contact your healthcare provider. Symptoms that continue after about four weeks may mean you have subacute or chronic sinusitis. If you develop other types of symptoms, such as severe eye swelling, or you are just not sure what you should do next, call your provider.

    If you have facial pain, and you have healthy teeth, you can try things like nasal rinses and warm, wet washcloths on your face to see if you find some relief. If so, and if your symptoms go away in about 10 days, you probably have had acute sinusitis and it has gotten better on its own. If not, and you continue to feel ill after three or four weeks, call your provider.

    Last reviewed by a Cleveland Clinic medical professional on 06/04/2020.

    References

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    Can A Sinus Infection Affect Your Mood

    Yes, especially if youre in pain.

    Many people in pain become irritated, annoyed, frustrated, or even sad, depressed, and heavy-hearted. Infections can really mess with your mood, and like I said earlier, sinus infections are not the exception.

    There are many different things that could happen to your mood if you are suffering from an infection. Everybody is different. Some people develop more anger, others get anxious, some get just plain irritated, others get sad and sometimes even depressed.

    There are so many different ways of having a sinus infection could affect your mood, although typically all of them are not considered good ways. The ones I wrote about above are just a few feelings having a sinus infection could bring on, and just a few ways that having a sinus infection could affect your mood. It could go in many different directions, depending on who you are, but having an infection almost never affects your mood in a positive way, usually only negative.

    But, if you experience any of these mood changes due to a sinus infection , just remember its not you. Its the infection causing it, and hopefully with treatment, when the physical symptoms get better, the mental and emotional ones will too.

    How To Treat A Sinus Infection At Home

    Ears Ringing Headaches Sinusitis Depression Fatigue ...

    You can effectively treat sinus infections at home with over-the-counter medicines or one or more home remedies.

    Dethlefs recommends, Drink plenty of water, use Vicks vapor rub on chest and bottoms of feet, rest and sleep and humidifier. One thing I like to do when my family is sick is boil water on the stove and melt Vicks vapor rub in it. Then pour solution in ice cube trays and freeze. Add 1-2 ice cubs to bottom of shower.

    OTC medicines that may improve symptoms of a sinus infection include:

    • Nasal decongestant sprays help reduce swelling in the nasal passages to promote drainage flow from the sinuses. This sinus infection treatment should only be used for three to four days to reduce the risk of rebound congestion.
    • Nasal corticosteroid sprays help reduce swelling and inflammation in the nasal passages without causing rebound congestion.
    • Antihistamines remain particularly helpful for those whose nasal passages become inflamed and swollen due to seasonal allergies.
    • Nasal saline washes and rinses help clear mucus from the nasal passages to promote easier breathing.

    Your doctor may also prescribe antibiotics if OTC medicines fail to relieve your symptoms within seven to 10 days. Antibiotics are usually only prescribed as a last-resort treatment for sinus infections due to the risk of overuse, which may lead to other difficult-to-treat infections.

    Home remedies for sinus infection include:

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