There are many different conditions that can cause vertigo and dizziness, one such condition is a common sinus infection. Sinus infections and dizziness don’t always go hand in hand. However, chronic sinus infections can lead to frequent spells of dizziness.
Dizziness occurs from a sinus infection because our balance center is located within our ears which are further connected to our nasal passage ways…
Therefore, when we have an infection in our sinuses, fluid can build up around the middle ear placing pressure on the ear drum and the inner ear itself. This upsets the fine tuning of the vestibular labyrinth which is what the brain depends on in order to maintain balance.
The fluid inside the ear distorts the information that is passed on to the brain, creating severe nausea and dizziness.
According to Emedicine Health you can treat sinus infections by doing the following:
Promote drainage:
- Drink plenty of water and hydrating beverages such as hot tea.
- Inhale steam two to four times per day by leaning over a bowl of hot water (not while the water is on the stove) or using a steam vaporizer. Inhale the steam for about 10 minutes. Taking a hot, steamy shower may also work. Mentholated preparations, such as Vicks Vapo-Rub, can be added to the water or vaporizer to aid in opening the passageways.
Thin the mucus: Expectorants are drugs that help expel mucus from the lungs and respiratory passages. They help thin mucous secretions, enhancing drainage from the sinuses. The most common is guaifenesin (contained in Robitussin and Mucinex, for example). Over-the-counter (OTC) cough medications can also combine decongestants and cough suppressants to reduce symptoms and eliminate the need for the use of many medications. Read label ingredients to find the right combination of ingredients or ask the pharmacist for help.
Relieve pain: Pain medication such as ibuprofen (Motrin and Advil), aspirin, and naproxen (Aleve) can reduce pain and inflammation. These medications help to open the airways by reducing swelling. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) can be used for pain and fever but does not help with the inflammation.
Nasal saline irrigation: There are several methods of nasal irrigation, and a popular remedy is the Neti-pot – a ceramic pot that looks like a cross between a small teapot and Aladdin’s magic lamp.
- Ear, nose, and throat surgeons recommend nasal irrigation with a Neti-pot to help clear crusting in the nasal passages. Many people with chronic sinus symptoms use the Neti-pot to alleviate congestion, facial pain and pressure, and reduce the need for antibiotics and nasal sprays.
(Before using nasal saline irrigation, discuss it with your physician)
Related posts:
