What are the complications of sinusitis? Complications on the brain and spinal cord

Sinusitis is a rather severe disease. Most often, it is a complication of a previous infectious disease of the respiratory tract. It requires urgent treatment. The danger of the disease lies in the fact that its neglected form will certainly cause complications.

If the human immune system is strong, then it will successfully cope with sinusitis. With a general weakness of the body, it is extremely difficult to predict the further course of the disease. If you do not treat sinusitis, then its acute stage will quickly turn into a chronic form. Chronic sinusitis, the complications of which are insidious, is a disease that is difficult to treat.

What is sinusitis and what are its complications?

The basis of the occurrence of sinusitis is the introduction of pathogenic microbes into the mucous membrane (hence the name of the disease).

What are the pathological phenomena caused by the disease are varied. It all depends on the area of damage and its degree.

With sinusitis, nasal breathing and the separation of mucus from the cavities in the region of the upper jaw are disturbed. Accumulating, it promotes the growth of bacteria, which causes an even more extensive inflammatory process in the maxillary sinuses. Thus, a closed chain is formed with the further development of complications.

What are the types of complications

They are divided into two conditional groups. The first includes negative consequences affecting the state of the respiratory system.

Among them should be highlighted:

the transition of sinusitis from the acute stage to the chronic;
the occurrence of an inflammatory process in the pharynx and tonsils;
development of bronchitis and pneumonia;
the spread of sinusitis to other sinuses;
the occurrence of an inflammatory process in the middle ear (otitis media).

Complications of sinusitis in adults, belonging to the second group, go beyond the defeat of the respiratory system. In this case, many body systems can take a hit on themselves.

Complications include:

inflammatory process in the meninges with meningitis and encephalitis;
heart damage (myocarditis);
joint inflammation (rheumatoid arthritis);
violation of the functionality of the kidneys (nephritis);
blood poisoning (sepsis).

The main symptoms of sinusitis

The transition of the disease from the acute stage to the chronic stage is difficult to establish, since the list of symptoms of the disease is quite extensive.

Chronic symptoms include:

asthenia;
persistent runny nose;
persistent migraines;
discharge from the nose of purulent mucus, often they have an unpleasant odor.

The chronic course of sinusitis can be confused with a simple cold or overwork. One of the clearest manifestations of the disease is unilateral nasal congestion. This is due to the inflammatory process occurring in one maxillary sinus. After a certain period of time, nasal congestion can spread to the other side due to the fact that inflammation has captured the adjacent cavity.

Conditions under which acute sinusitis becomes chronic

Sinusitis acquires a chronic course due to various reasons, among which are:

untimely relief of the disease;
non-compliance with doctor's recommendations;
reduced immunity;
the presence of concomitant respiratory diseases.

The transition of sinusitis to a chronic form can be caused by the presence of a severe pathology of the cardiovascular system or the respiratory system. In such conditions, the patient may complain of a lack of air.

In chronic sinusitis, the lining of the nose and maxillary sinuses thickens and becomes inflamed. A person begins to breathe through his mouth, which contributes to the spread of infection to new areas.

The negative impact of oral breathing lies in the inactivity of the nose and nasopharynx during the respiratory process. Dry, not moistened with mucus, the air is full of pathogenic microbes. They enter the pharynx, larynx, trachea, bronchi and lungs. Thus, sinusitis contributes to the entry of microbes through the mouth and inflamed maxillary sinuses.

Visual impairment with sinusitis

Complications of sinusitis can hardly be called typical. No one knows which organ or system it will affect. It happens that the intensive use of antibiotics contributes to a decrease in resistance to them. Due to improper treatment of the disease, visual impairment may occur. For example, sinusitis can cause swelling of the tissue of the eyes, retrobulbar inflammation, or thrombosis of the veins of the orbit.

In case of visual impairment, you should immediately seek help from a specialist.

Bone lesion

If the inflammatory process has spread to the bone tissue, then this causes osteoperiostitis. The disease can have both simple and purulent course. This is a very serious complication with a severe clinic.

Therapy is based on the use of antibiotics. At the same time, not only drugs of general action are prescribed. Certain drugs are injected into the area of inflammation. Sometimes this disease requires surgery.

Trigeminal neuritis

Complications after sinusitis are very diverse. Quite often, the disease causes inflammation of the trigeminal nerve. In this condition, the nerve endings adjacent to the cerebellum swell and become inflamed, which causes acute pain. The disease is difficult to treat.

Respiratory failure

As a rule, a person does not attach importance to the fact that with sinusitis a runny nose and discharge appear. In fact, the condition of the maxillary sinuses greatly affects the entire body. For example, difficulty breathing through the nose can cause insomnia, which will lead to a drop in performance and an increase in blood pressure. As a result, sleep apnea syndrome (stopping breathing during a night's sleep) may appear.

Tonsillitis and adenoids

Complications of acute sinusitis suggest the development of pathological processes in the nose and pharynx. With sinusitis, it is these areas that take the brunt of the blow. Inflammation of the maxillary sinuses causes hypertrophy of their mucous membrane. Over time, on the inflamed surface, benign neoplasms - polyps can occur. They greatly contribute to the difficulty of nasal breathing and cause even more swelling of the mucous membrane.

In the pharynx, the tonsils are susceptible to infection. They are based on lymphoid tissue. Tonsils have a complex branched structure. Thanks to this structure, the infection in them easily takes root and multiplies rapidly.

The inflammatory process in the tonsils is called angina. With the defeat of the tonsils, adenoids are formed, which are somewhat reminiscent of polyps. But the place of localization is the pharynx.

Damage to the bronchi and lungs

As a result of the fact that the infection spreads from the maxillary sinuses down, it can affect the bronchi and lungs. As a result, bronchitis or pneumonia may develop.

Pneumonia is a serious disease. And if it was preceded by sinusitis, then the symptoms of intoxication of the respiratory tract will be more pronounced. Frequently recurring bronchitis can provoke the development of bronchial asthma.

sinusitis

All paranasal sinuses, frontal, ethmoid and maxillary, have a message between them. Therefore, with the localization of bacteria in one of them, inflammation may begin in other areas.

As a rule, inflammation of the maxillary sinuses is the first reaction that causes frontal sinusitis. In especially severe cases, the pathological process can spread to all sinuses. This condition is called pansinusitis. Its course is severe. The disease is accompanied by high fever and severe intoxication of the whole organism.

Occurrence of otitis media

Very often, the inflammatory process, localized in the maxillary sinuses, spreads to the ears. As you know, the pharynx communicates with the middle ear through a canal located in the temple area. This cavity is called the Eustachian tube.

The infectious process from the maxillary sinuses spreads to the pharynx, and from there to the auditory tube. The penetration of microbes is facilitated by blowing the nose, which creates increased pressure in the pharynx. The mucus infection enters the ear. This is what causes otitis media.

The patient complains of congestion in the ear, then there are pain sensations that disturb the patient at night. The pain is accompanied by the release of pus from the external auditory canal.

Meningoencephalitis

Otitis is terrible not only by the appearance of pain and pus. The middle and inner part of the ear is located near the meninges. The purulent process can easily spread to this area. Meningitis develops, which can be fatal.

At first, the patient complains of a severe migraine and a sharp increase in temperature. Further, specific neurological symptoms appear, characterized by partial or complete loss of consciousness. The inflammatory process can affect the substance of the brain, and meningitis will be aggravated by encephalitis.

The effect of sinusitis on internal organs

The maxillary sinuses, filled with pus, are the focus of infection. Blood and lymph can carry it to all organs. In this case, such complications of sinusitis as damage to the myocardium, kidneys and joints are possible.

When exposed to the myocardium, the connective tissue structures of the heart valves are destroyed. When the joints are affected, cartilage degeneration occurs. Infection in the kidneys causes such a complication as nephritis. This disease, in turn, provokes kidney failure.

The occurrence of sepsis

The most severe complication of sinusitis is blood poisoning. The development of sepsis is facilitated by weak immunity and the primary purulent focus. In this case, it is represented by the maxillary sinuses.

Bacteria are carried with blood to all organs in which secondary foci of inflammation occur.

Sinusitis in children

Children are more likely than adults to suffer from infectious and colds. Infections that are not completely cured can be complicated by sinusitis.

This does not apply to children in infancy, since their maxillary sinuses are undeveloped. Children older than 4 years old can get sinusitis. Due to the small size of the sinuses, the symptoms may not be so pronounced.

The main complication of sinusitis in children is otitis media. Unlike adults, children's ears become inflamed much more often. Therefore, the treatment of sinusitis should be carried out as soon as possible. You should pay attention to a prolonged runny nose in a child. If you notice that the discharge has become yellowish-green in color, and a putrid odor emanates from them, then this is a reason to visit the doctor's office.

In children, sinusitis does not always cause pain and fever.

Complications of sinusitis in children are as follows:

inflammation of the bronchi or lungs;
the appearance of otitis, ethmoiditis or frontal sinusitis.

In addition to these diseases, sepsis, disruption of the kidneys and heart, inflammation of the joints can occur.

How to prevent the development of complications of sinusitis? First of all, the disease should be treated in a timely manner. Complex therapy involves taking drugs that have anti-inflammatory and antipyretic effects. Antibiotics are also used.

Treatment of complications of sinusitis is sometimes difficult. It all depends on the area of localization of the pathological process and the prevalence of inflammation.

Medicines against microbes for sinusitis (antiseptics) are used topically in the form of rinses, drops or irrigation.

Folk methods have a good effect. But these funds should be used in combination with drugs prescribed by a doctor.

Hygiene is very important. The blowing process should not be intense. In this case, it is desirable to keep the mouth open so that the mucus does not penetrate the Eustachian tube.

It should be remembered about general strengthening methods based on the use of multivitamins and immune system stimulants. Nutrition should be complete, and the situation at work and at home should be optimal.

At the first suspicion of the development of sinusitis, you should immediately contact a laryngologist.

Sinusitis is a type of sinusitis, which is characterized by the development of inflammation in the area above the upper jaw. The maxillary sinuses are located under the eyes, on either side of the nose. Inflammation begins in one or both cavities, provoking a range of treatable symptoms. Proper therapy will prevent the consequences of sinusitis. The disease appears at any age, but an adult is more likely to avoid it with proper prevention.

Important! Running sinusitis is not just a disease, it is a danger to human life.

Complications of sinusitis quickly manifest themselves with insufficient antibiotic therapy. The main treatment course is aimed at stopping inflammation inside the cranium.

Organs susceptible to infection:

meninges, substance;
eyes;
cellulose;
blood vessels;
skull bones.

A complication affecting the internal organs can occur almost imperceptibly. Do not start sinusitis in the hope of self-healing - the body may not be able to cope. In general, the likely complications are grouped into two categories: extracranial and intracranial. Each is characterized by a different clinical picture.

Extracranial complications

Such complications are characterized by the appearance of pus in the tissues around the maxillary cavity. The infection does not penetrate the inside of the skull. Eye diseases are most often provoked. The appearance of severe symptoms means worsening of the course of sinusitis and insufficiency of its treatment. You need to immediately contact an otolaryngologist and an ophthalmologist. Treatment at this stage will be carried out permanently.

Intracranial consequences develop much less frequently than the first category, but death from them occurs in almost half of the cases. These are dangerous complications that quickly turn into diseases:

meningitis (inflammation of the lining of the brain) - purulent or serous;
brain abscess - a purulent focus develops directly in the brain tissues;
thrombus of cerebral vessels;
blood poisoning.

Important! All diseases can lead to death, even with timely relief of symptoms. It is better to treat sinusitis in time.

Symptoms in these cases of brain damage are as follows:

Headache.
Acute sensitivity to light and sound.
Decreased vision.
The temperature rises to critical levels of 40 ° C.

The patient cannot tilt his head, he has slurred speech and hallucinations. The cranium seems to be pressed from the inside, it often seems that it is about to “explode”. The patient feels out of place, wanting to find a more comfortable position for the body.

The condition is critical, immediate hospitalization and treatment is required. A puncture of the cerebrospinal fluid helps to diagnose the disease. As a result of the analyzes, a specific treatment is prescribed.

Why sinusitis causes complications

Many do not even suspect how dangerous the consequences of sinusitis in adults are. Infection of the body begins with the maxillary sinuses, which are too close to the brain and the main vessels. Undertreatment of sinusitis is also dangerous because of the likelihood of developing a chronically stuffy nose.

Complications develop under the following conditions:

An accurate diagnosis was not carried out, an erroneous diagnosis was made. The clinical picture often coincides with the symptoms of rhinitis. The treatment is significantly different, as is the consequence of the two diseases.
Ineffective therapy. The human body is structured differently, and the susceptibility of drugs is different.
Neglect of doctor's orders. The carelessness of the patient regarding his health can turn into much more serious problems.
Unfinished Therapy. It also happens that the main symptoms are stopped, but the focus of infection remains. The patient stops treatment, hoping for his own cure.
Weak immune system. The prescribed treatment course and accurate diagnosis are useless, since the body, even with the help of drugs, cannot provide a sufficient rebuff to the disease. Residual phenomena can manifest themselves at any time.

It is impossible to accurately establish the exact disease only by the symptoms and try to treat it yourself. A striking example for this is rhinitis with a similar clinical manifestation. It is a big mistake to try to simply stop a runny nose without consulting a doctor.

It is necessary to know what is dangerous sinusitis in advanced form in order to prevent the development of other diseases in time.

Meningitis

The infection goes deep into the cranium, spreading to the meninges. The development of an infection in the brain in itself is of great danger, and meningitis in the last stage is not curable at all.

The disease is accompanied by clouding of consciousness, swelling of the meninges. Pus fills all available space. Meningitis basically has two forms: serous and purulent.

The clinical picture at first does not differ at all from the development of sinusitis. The patient's general well-being worsens, severe pains in the joints and muscles appear. The classic picture: runny nose, red throat and high fever. That is why it is difficult to diagnose the disease at the very beginning, the symptoms are too general.

The main symptom of meningitis, already finally confirming the diagnosis, is a rash on the skin. Rashes most often appear on the back along the spine. In addition, clinical studies will reveal a high concentration of leukocytes.

Other symptoms of damage to the meninges:

palpitations: tachycardia, bradycardia;
shortness of breath;
enlarged lymph nodes;
pressing headache;
bouts of vomiting;
dehydration;
epileptiform seizures.

The disease enters a dangerous period when meningeal symptoms appear. The patient does not allow himself to be touched because of the resulting pain. Develops fear of light and sounds, hypersensitivity.

The disease is diagnosed by CT and MRI of the brain, blood tests and spinal puncture. Treatment requires compulsory hospitalization, since some forms of the disease are contagious.

The infection can pass to the medulla. The disease is manifested by inflammation of the entire brain. Being a complication of sinusitis, the disease also has its own dangerous consequences: impaired coordination, psyche and much more.

The clinical picture differs depending on the classification of the disease. But the general symptoms remain the same:

critically high temperature;
dizziness, headache;
nausea, vomiting;
weakness of muscle tissues;
sleep disturbance;
fatigue.

The acute form of encephalitis can cause convulsions, loss of consciousness, nervous overexcitation. The patient often hallucinates while awake.

A patient with a diagnosed disease should be immediately hospitalized. Full recovery from inflammation of the brain is possible only with proper therapy and rehabilitation.

Myocarditis, nephritis, inflammation of other internal organs

Of particular danger is the spread of infection throughout the body, along with lymph and blood. Pathogenic microorganisms enter the internal organs, provoking the development of secondary foci. It is sometimes simply impossible to diagnose and eliminate all sites of infection.

Myocarditis- damage to the heart muscle. It is characterized by rhythm disturbance, pain in the region of the heart, shortness of breath and fatigue appear even in young people. Blood circulation is disturbed, sweating increases, pain in the joints develops. The skin becomes pale, acquiring a bluish tint. Often develops arrhythmia, leading to death. It is not so easy to determine myocarditis - at first it is almost asymptomatic.

Nephritis- Inflammatory damage to the kidneys. The clinical picture also has practically no manifestations, they are easy to miss against the background of the development of other complications. Classic signs: malaise, headaches, constant thirst. The volume of urine is significantly reduced, appetite disappears, an increased protein content is found in the analyzes. Rarely, diarrhea and vomiting occur. The patient's legs and arms swell.

Inflammation of other organs also has the main signs that are almost impossible to determine against the background of the development of sinusitis and its complications. Therefore, it is difficult to determine how deeply the infection has penetrated the body.

General blood poisoning is the most dangerous of complications, it has a high risk of death. The primary cause of sepsis is a weak immune system. Sinusitis provokes bacterial foci that enter the circulatory system.

Symptoms of the disease are as follows:

The critical change in temperature is from the lowest to the highest, and vice versa.
General malaise: headache, muscle weakness.
Constant vomiting.
Dehydration.
Clouding of consciousness.

The development of sepsis occurs rapidly, often the patient does not even have time to make a diagnosis. A full-fledged infection of the body is difficult to overcome. The patient falls into a coma.

Bone lesion

Speaking of bones, it is difficult to accept that they are also susceptible to infection. Common diseases: periostitis of the orbit and osteomyelitis of the jaw.

Periostitis is accompanied by inflammation of the periosteum of the facial and cerebral parts of the skull. Visually characterized by swelling of tissues, pain when touched. The affected area is expanding all the time.

Osteomyelitis is an inflammation of the bone marrow that affects the entire bone: periosteum, spongy and compact substance. Pus fills all available space. The clinical picture is typical: the area becomes painful, hot to the touch, there is a pronounced edema.

In fact, they are the first to be hit by an infectious spread. Constant inflammation of the mucous membranes leads to hypertrophy. After that, polyps form on it, interfering with breathing and contributing to edema.

Tonsillitis provokes an increase in the tonsils. The acute form of inflammation is characterized by angina. Clinical signs remain typical: fever, malaise, sore throat, runny nose, cough. Infection of the pharyngeal tonsil leads to the formation of adenoids.

Occurrence of otitis media

The infection penetrates the ear canal, provoking the process of inflammation. There is a characteristic shooting pain, temporary hearing loss. Symptoms appear during the blowing of mucus. As a result, such diseases can develop: laryngitis, bronchitis, pneumonia, tracheitis.

Complications on the eyes

The eyes are the most vulnerable area, subject to complications the most. The infection affects the optic nerve, resulting in the development of an abscess leading to blindness.

Symptoms of the inflammatory process:

swelling of the eyelids;
hyperthermia of the skin of the lower eyelids;
conjunctivitis;
feeling of internal pressure;
displacement of the eyeballs;
difficulty moving the eyes.

Motor functions are limited, accompanied by pain. Puffiness of the eyelids does not allow wide opening of the eyes. Quite rarely, but still, exophthalmos occurs - the eyeball protrudes unnaturally from the orbit. There is a pronounced intoxication of the body. High temperature rises, pain in muscle tissue. The patient loses his appetite, is constantly cold and feels weak.

Treatment takes several weeks. Sometimes surgical intervention is necessary - the abscess is opened to save vision.

Complications of sinusitis on the ears

The clinical picture is manifested by acute pain, recurrent attacks, congestion and temporary hearing loss. Exudate appears periodically. The development of fever, which disappears after treatment of sinusitis, is characteristic.

Many people are interested in what will happen if sinusitis is not treated, and what consequences should be expected? The most common manifestation is the chronic form of the disease. The main clinical sign is the loss of smell in only one nasal sinus.

The peculiarity of the chronic course of the disease lies in the fact that the sides change, the inflammation flows from one sinus to another.

Permanent symptoms:

pressing sensation under the eyes;
conjunctivitis;
swelling of the cheeks and eyelids;
persistent cough;
fatigue;
difficult breathing;
purulent discharge with an unpleasant odor.

Treatment after loss of smell is prescribed by a doctor.

Nutrition for sinusitis

The diet for the development of sinusitis should include certain foods that have a beneficial effect on the immune system:

Freshly squeezed vegetable cocktails: spinach, carrots, beets.
Herbal decoctions of chamomile, St. John's wort. They moisturize the mucous membranes, facilitate the outflow of mucus.
Mineral water - it is advisable to drink such water, as dehydration often occurs.

Treatment of sinusitis and almost all of its complications requires surgical intervention. A purulent abscess is opened and drained. This procedure avoids the spread of infection throughout the body. After that, antibacterial and antiseptic drugs are prescribed in a large dosage.

Washing

The washing procedure relieves mucosal edema, improves the immune functions of the epithelium, contributing to resistance. The main focus is the cleansing of stagnant mucus.

Carrying out the procedure:

Remove congestion with vasoconstrictor drops.
Start sinus douching.
The head must be tilted to one side, the syringe should be inserted without playing into the nostril and the solution should be poured.
Change the slope, wait until the solution flows back.
Repeat until the mucus is completely out.

Washing is carried out with special solutions: salt and sea water. Of the drugs used: Dioxidin, Furacilin and propolis tincture.

Medical therapy

Antibiotics with a bacteriostatic effect are mainly used. Detoxification therapy is carried out with the introduction of intravenous saline solutions. It is recommended to use broad-spectrum antiseptics, since complications can occur throughout the body.

Preventive measures include the timely treatment of seasonal rhinitis. The manifested symptom significantly increases the risk of developing sinusitis.

Important! The use of a large amount of natural vitamins (fruits, vegetables) and the intake of vitamin complexes will help strengthen the body's resistance.

Sinusitis often occurs against the background of other diseases. It is worth treating on time, while avoiding provoking factors:

Do not skip cleaning, treat your teeth in a timely manner.
Treat an allergic reaction that occurs in the spring.
Wash hands before eating.
Do not overcool the body.
Get vaccinated.

In winter, humidify the air in the house so that the nasal mucosa does not dry out.

Conclusion

It is difficult to cure the acute form of sinusitis, but the chronic form is much more difficult. It is important to start treatment immediately if the first symptoms of sinusitis appear. Particular attention should be paid to the first signs of complications in order to stop them in time.

Inflammation of the mucous membrane of the maxillary sinuses (sinusitis) is caused by a violation of the free outflow of the mucous secretion. In this case, there is a feeling of pressure from the sinuses and pain, which is localized in the temporal and frontal zone. The patient at the same time feels a general malaise, which is accompanied by an increase in temperature.

Sinusitis usually occurs in cold weather after suffering a cold. As a rule, the disease begins acutely and unexpectedly.

With these symptoms, it is imperative to contact for examination and begin treatment. Otherwise, the disease can lead to severe and serious complications.

Dangerous consequences of sinusitis

The sinuses perform a protective function and prevent the penetration of infection into the body. However, with their inflammation, the proximity of the purulent focus to the brain, eyes and lungs is very dangerous.
With untimely treatment, sinusitis provokes the development of diseases such as tonsillitis, pneumonia, meningitis, osteoperiostitis, sepsis.

Chronic sinusitis

The transition of the disease into a chronic form is the most common complication of sinusitis, which is not entirely easy to diagnose. The disease can often be confused with a common cold or fatigue. The patient feels weak, but the body temperature remains normal. The main symptom of the chronic form is the course of inflammation on only one side. Treatment takes a long time and occurs after prolonged medication.

The effect of sinusitis on vision

Prolonged sinusitis can affect the organ of vision. Complications can be of varying severity: from swelling of the tissue of the eyelids and orbit to acute purulent inflammation of the orbit and vein thrombosis.
If the disease is accompanied by swelling of the eyelids in the morning and inflammation of the mucous membrane of the eyes, then it can be assumed that the inflammation has spread to the soft tissues of the orbit. Gradually, with the development of the inflammatory process, vision can deteriorate dramatically.

osteoperiostitis

Another pathology that can develop as a result of sinusitis is osteoperiostitis, or inflammation of the bone tissue.
The disease is accompanied by swelling of the cheeks, swelling of the lower eyelids and conjunctivitis. In severe cases, a complication can cause displacement of the eyeballs, leading to limited eye movement. Sometimes the disease can even lead to optic nerve dystrophy.

The effect of sinusitis on the hearing organs

As a result of sinusitis, otitis media can also develop. This pathological complication is difficult and its treatment requires a lot of effort. Purulent otitis is accompanied by fever and malaise, which can sometimes result in hearing loss. It is important to know that in some cases the disease may be asymptomatic.

Inflammation of the trigeminal nerve

Trigeminal neuritis, which is characterized by swelling and inflammation of the nerve endings, is also a very common complication. The disease is difficult to cure and is accompanied by severe and excruciating pain, which is often not stopped by conventional analgesics.

Meningitis

Meningitis is one of the worst consequences of sinusitis. The disease is accompanied by a sharp rise in temperature, nausea, vomiting and severe headaches. The patient has confusion, hallucinations and convulsions.

The course of the disease can be either latent or sluggish, or acute, when symptoms appear within a couple of hours from the onset of the disease. It is important to remember that if untimely or improperly treated, the disease can lead to death.

People suffering from a runny nose, sometimes do not even know what consequences this symptom can lead to. Mucus in the nose is an ideal place for bacteria to live and multiply, which very quickly cause inflammation of the paranasal sinuses with all the ensuing consequences. With the development of sinusitis, few people immediately rush to the doctor. Folk recipes and recommendations from friends are used, this leads to the loss of precious time and the complication of the disease. Sinusitis is dangerous because the infection can quickly spread throughout the body and lead to a number of complications, some of which are more dangerous than the disease itself.

How does chronic sinusitis develop?

Sinusitis is an inflammation of the maxillary paranasal sinuses caused by various causes. The chronic form of the disease begins if the inflammation of the paranasal sinuses is not carried out for too long. The inflammatory process in the nose begins if viruses, bacteria or allergens enter the sinuses. They irritate the mucous membrane, which leads to increased formation of mucus and its accumulation in the paranasal sinuses. The nasal mucosa is very swollen, due to which the drainage of the liquid is impaired. This leads to the accumulation of mucus in the cavities and severe inflammation. If a bacterial infection joins, then the contents of the appendages become purulent.

Injuries to the nose, congenital and acquired defects of the nasal septum, as well as polyps can cause the development of the inflammatory process. The cause of inflammation of the paranasal sinuses can be pathogenic fungi. In this case, particles of white, brown or black mycelium come out along with the mucus.

Before proceeding with the treatment of sinusitis, it is absolutely necessary to establish the cause of the disease. The treatment regimen for different forms of the disease is different.

Is sinusitis dangerous?

Sinusitis is a great danger to health, and in some cases to human life. So, if a runny nose is not started to be treated at an early stage, it can quickly lead to stagnation of mucus, which then puts pressure on other ENT organs. Most often, inflammation of the paranasal sinuses occurs against the background of acute otitis media.

The infection process can quickly affect the teeth. In this case, the roots of the teeth become inflamed, especially those that are in close proximity to the maxillary sinuses. Literally a few days after the development of sinusitis, the pharyngeal tonsils and cervical lymph nodes can become inflamed. This leads to tonsillitis, laryngitis and pharyngitis.

If a person continues to delay treatment, then the inflammation affects the lower respiratory tract. This leads to severe bronchitis and pneumonia. The most dangerous are complications in which the inflammatory process affects the brain and organs of vision. The danger of sinusitis in advanced form is that it can cause inflammation of the brain and optic nerve. This, in turn, can lead not only to loss of vision, but also to death.

With untimely treatment of sinusitis, inflammation of the heart muscle may occur. This threatens heart failure and death.

What happens if sinusitis is not treated

Inflammation of the maxillary sinuses is dangerous for its consequences. Infection with the bloodstream quickly spreads throughout the body and leads to diseases of other organs and systems. Particularly dangerous if blood particles are released when blowing your nose. This means that the vessels are damaged, and the infection easily enters the bloodstream. Against the background of sinusitis, such pathologies can develop:

chronic form of the disease;
diseases of the eyes and ears;
inflammation of the facial nerve;
sepsis;
meningitis;
periostitis.

The most insignificant complication is the chronic form of sinusitis. In this case, the disease proceeds with periods of exacerbation and remission, so many people think that they have a cold. Chronic sinusitis is characterized by persistent nasal congestion, occasional tinnitus, frequent headaches, and abnormal fatigue. During periods of exacerbation, body temperature may rise. Only an experienced doctor can recognize the chronic form of sinusitis based on such signs.

With especially advanced sinusitis, the temperature constantly keeps at subfebrile levels, there may be an unpleasant smell from the nose, which is felt by both the patient himself and the people around him.

The diagnosis is made by the doctor based on the results of x-rays and tests. Treatment of chronic sinusitis always takes a long time.

Diseases of the organs of vision

Running sinusitis can lead to vein thrombosis in the eyes, as well as retinal detachment. If the sinuses are full of purulent contents, then there is a high probability that pus will enter the eye sockets. In this case, an inflammatory process begins in the eyes. The following signs may indicate the development of complications:

redness and swelling of the eyelids;
some visual impairment;
impaired mobility of the eyeballs;
the temperature rises;
with light pressure on the eye sockets, a severe headache occurs;
the patient's consciousness may be confused.

Quite often, inflammation of the paranasal sinuses is accompanied by conjunctivitis. In case of complications in the eyes, the doctor prescribes both local and systemic drugs.

Many antibacterial drugs that were used to treat various infections a few years ago are now ineffective, as bacteria have developed resistance.

Meningitis

The danger of chronic sinusitis is also that its symptoms are often not noticed, which means that the disease is not treated in a timely manner. Quite often, pathogenic microorganisms that multiply excessively in the nose cause inflammation of the brain and spinal cord. Meningitis is manifested by such symptoms:

there are severe headaches;
vomiting develops, which does not bring relief to the patient;
difficulty bending the neck;
the muscles in the back of the head are very tense;
it is difficult for the patient to look at bright lights and hear loud sounds;
temperature can rise to high levels.

Inflammation of the membranes of the brain progresses very quickly. A person can fall into a coma already after a few hours from the onset of the disease.

Meningitis is important to diagnose and start treatment in a timely manner. Therapy is prescribed for at least 2 weeks. At the same time, intravenous infusions of glucose and saline are prescribed, broad-spectrum antibiotics and a complex of vitamins are prescribed. With meningitis, lumbar punctures are also indicated, which allow you to quickly remove the decay products of bacteria and reduce the symptoms of intoxication.

It should be understood that even with the modern development of medicine, meningitis is a deadly disease.

Inflammation of the periosteum

Periostitis often becomes a complication of sinusitis. In this case, antibacterial drugs are selected for treatment, which can penetrate into the bone tissue. Quite often, for the treatment of periostitis, doctors prefer Lincomycin.

If conservative treatment does not give an effect, they resort to surgical intervention.

Sepsis

If the infection enters the bloodstream, blood poisoning may develop. The treatment regimen always includes antibacterial drugs, vitamins and immunomodulators. Treatment of sepsis is required in a hospital setting. If the pathology is severe, there is a high risk of death. This complication of sinusitis is extremely rare, but it cannot be discounted.

Chronic sinusitis is often accompanied by inflammation of the facial nerve. The inflammatory process can begin on any part of this nerve and soon cover it all. This pathology is accompanied by severe pain in the face from the side of the injury. There may be immobility of the affected area.

Treatment of inflammation of the trigeminal nerve is sometimes somewhat difficult, since antibacterial drugs do not reach the focus of inflammation well. In addition to medications, physiotherapy procedures may be prescribed.

A complication of chronic sinusitis can be pneumonia or chronic bronchitis. In this case, the infection spreads through the bloodstream.

The danger of running sinusitis is that the infection, quickly spreading through the bloodstream, affects other organs and systems. To prevent the development of complications, treatment should be started.

Everyone needs to know that the consequences of sinusitis can be quite serious and dangerous if the disease is not treated on time or treated inappropriately. Complications caused by the disease can affect almost all organs adjacent to the maxillary sinuses. And sometimes they cause irreversible changes.

Therefore, it is best to prevent the onset of such troubles in advance by starting to properly treat inflammation in its early stages.

If you do not treat sinusitis, you risk facing dangerous consequences.

Sinusitis is an inflammatory process that affects the maxillary paranasal cavities. The disease begins after a viral, bacterial or viral infection and involves damage to the sinus mucosa, a violation of normal air circulation inside. It leads to:

congestion and swelling;
microflora activation.

Since the mucosa is connected with other paranasal cavities by excretory openings, the inflammatory process can quickly move to other organs.

There are a lot of nerves in the nose, as well as blood vessels. The formation of an infectious focus is an undoubted threat to health. Accordingly, the consequences of sinusitis can be more than serious.

Dangerous Consequences

What happens if sinusitis is not treated? It will turn into a chronic form and, accordingly, will become a dormant infectious source:

distributor of infectious agents;
cause of increased allergic sensitivity.

If left untreated, the disease becomes chronic, and complications can affect the brain.

The manifestation of sensitization is possible in any organ and sometimes turns out to be quite severe (Quincke's edema, in which the throat swells and death can occur).

It should not be thought that the inflammation of the maxillary sinuses will subside on its own if it is not touched. No less dangerous is to diagnose yourself and prescribe treatment. All this can lead to worsening of the disease.

Intracranial complications

Intracranial complications are encountered infrequently, but such a possibility should not be discarded. Most of all, you need to be wary of the inflammatory process that has passed to the meninges - according to statistics, such complications usually occur not in adults, but in children.

The chance of death increases with:

brain abscess;
purulent meningitis;
sinus thrombosis.

Among the symptoms of meningitis that develops after inflammation of the maxillary sinuses, it is worth noting:

severe migraine;
convulsive reaction;
hallucinations;
periodic loss of consciousness.

Severe and persistent headaches may indicate meningitis

The course of such diseases is very difficult, and treatment requires a lot of effort and time. Especially meningitis with sinusitis is dangerous for a child!

organs of vision

It is necessary to remember about the possibility of complications of sinusitis in the eyes. In particular, the eye orbits are affected. Usually the "culprits" are viral infections or pathogenic bacteria modified under the influence of antibiotics.

Problems with the orbits begin after the development of the inflammatory process, the main area of \u200b\u200bwhich becomes the ethmoid labyrinth.

In an adult, a chronic form of the disease leads to such troubles. In a child, problems can begin even with an acute course. The entry of infectious agents into the orbit occurs directly from the blood, but the contact method is not excluded.

How to understand that the tissues of the orbit are affected? First of all, by:

swelling of the eyelids;
feeling pain when touched;
suppuration or abscess (although sometimes the nature of the disease is non-purulent).

With non-purulent changes, the following changes can be observed:

limited eye movement
the conjunctival sac swells;
eyes are shifted forward (the phenomenon of exophthalmos);
the optic nerves become inflamed.

Sinusitis can adversely affect the quality of vision: for example, cause diplopia

After an illness, vision can seriously deteriorate:

objects will become bifurcated (diplopia);
the visual field narrows;
the optic nerve becomes inflamed (neuritis phenomenon).

With the same neuritis, visual acuity will significantly decrease, colors will be perceived poorly.

As for the purulent nature of the disease, it is likely to encounter:

eyelid abscess;
phlegmon of the eye orbits;
retrobulbar abscess (when the fiber melts).

At the same time, the temperature rises, chills appear, a person can feel sick (and sometimes even vomit). There may be other signs of intoxication.

bone tissue

Speaking about the complications and consequences of sinusitis, it is worth noting the inflammatory process affecting bone tissue.

Infectious agents can easily and quickly pass into the cranial bones from the maxillary sinus.

Young children are often faced with osteomyelitis.

Especially dangerous complications of sinusitis associated with damage to the bones of the skull

The bone walls are also able to become inflamed, as a result of which periostitis of the orbit develops. The main danger in this case is associated with the spread of inflammation to the meninges.

Respiratory system

The respiratory organs can also suffer if the described disease is not treated, both in adults and in younger people - this should be remembered!

In this case, you will additionally have to treat after sinusitis:

sore throat;
bronchitis;
pneumonia.

Since nasal breathing is disturbed, normal pulmonary ventilation is disturbed. At first, there may be a common runny nose, which then turns into more serious problems.

Due to purulent secretions that drain behind the larynx, infection of the lungs and bronchus is possible. Increased sensitivity is caused by purulent exudate - as a result of this:

bronchial asthma may begin;
allergic reactions develop.

If inflammation is not treated in a timely manner, there is a danger of sleep apnea, when breathing suddenly stops right in a dream.

Bronchial asthma can also be a complication of sinusitis

Pregnant women should be especially responsible for treating the disease, as impaired breathing and lack of oxygen:

lead to oxygen deficiency in the fetus;
interfere with the development of important organs.

With similar consequences of sinusitis in adults, it is better not to encounter it by starting the treatment of this disease in a timely manner. But if they have already occurred, immediately contact a medical specialist so as not to aggravate the situation.

The cardiovascular system

After insufficient or incorrect treatment, complications can affect the cardiovascular system, as a result of which one has to deal with:

venous thrombosis of the orbits;
increased pressure indicators;
myocarditis, when the heart muscle becomes inflamed.

The trigeminal nerve may become inflamed, since its second branch is localized near the maxillary sinus (separated by the mucosa).

Sinus tissues become inflamed, and neuritis develops, skin sensitivity increases in the zone of innervation.

Due to the nerve fibers of the trigeminal nerve, a pterygopalatine node is formed, which, in turn, innervates the ear, as well as the ciliary node. Accordingly, the defeat may affect:

ciliary muscle;
pupillary sphincter;
cornea, as well as the ocular membrane.

Sinusitis can even lead to myocarditis

Ganglionitis associated with an inflamed pterygopalatine node suggests the following symptoms:

temporal pain;
discomfort in the back of the head;
lacrimation;
development of a runny nose;
flushed cheeks;
inflammation of the conjunctivitis sac.

There is a return of pain in the chest and arm.

hearing organs

The consequences of sinusitis, if left untreated, may be associated with the ears, because the hearing organs are anatomically close to the maxillary cavity.

Traditionally, one has to suffer from otitis media, when the middle ear becomes inflamed.

In addition, there is a possibility of eustachitis, when the auditory tube becomes inflamed.

The cause of all these diseases is an infectious inflammatory process affecting the mucous membrane of the auditory tube and middle ear.

On the same side where the sinus is affected, the middle ear becomes inflamed, as a result of which hearing deteriorates. Increased risk:

deafness;
ear noise;
hearing loss;
ear congestion.

Such consequences are most often encountered in the chronic form.

Digestive system

Complications after sinusitis are sometimes associated with the digestive system, since purulent masses roll down behind the larynx and end up inside the esophagus and stomach.

Because of the mucus, the gastric walls are irritated and a chronic inflammatory process is possible, affecting almost all organs of the gastrointestinal tract.

If the complications of sinusitis are associated with the gastrointestinal tract, a symptom may be a violation of the stool

The symptoms that adults and children have to face in this case resemble signs of intoxication:

malaise;
broken stool;
increase in temperature indicators;
abdominal pain;
nausea.

Such consequences of not treating the disease also do not bring anything pleasant - moreover, the patient does not immediately realize that the primary cause of the functional disorder of the gastrointestinal tract is inflammation of the maxillary sinuses.

Dangerous consequences of a puncture

Usually they talk about the consequences of sinusitis, if it is not treated. However, treatment sometimes leads to certain complications. For example, this can happen after a puncture, which helps to remove pus from the sinus.

It must be understood that invasive procedures already involve impaired skin integrity, and therefore side effects are inevitable. Even after a regular injection, some redness and swelling remains - especially when it comes to puncture.

The severity of the consequences in this case is determined by:

the severity of the disease;
the patient's immunity.

Most often, bleeding from the nose begins, since the vessels are injured. There is a possibility of infection through the blood - especially since the brain is very close.

The puncture must be performed by a qualified and experienced physician.

It is even more dangerous if there is air with pus in the bloodstream. The blood vessel can become blocked, as a result of which vision is impaired, the patient becomes blind and even dies.

What complications can be if a Kulikovsky needle is used for puncture? It is erroneous to believe that any runny nose can subsequently turn into recurrent inflammation of the maxillary sinuses.

This procedure is contraindicated for:

small children;
diabetics;
hypertensive patients;
pregnant.

In other cases, the puncture is practically safe and allows you to remove pus from the sinus (that is, on the contrary, it helps). Serious side effects occur quite rarely (if, for example, the operation is performed by an inexperienced and / or unqualified doctor).

Recovery

Recovery after an illness requires special attention to avoid possible relapses and subsequent exacerbations.

Thanks to traditional medicine, it is possible to get rid of the main signs of the disease (including the symptoms of meningitis after sinusitis in adults and other complications), but the focus of preventive therapy is associated with strengthening the immune system.

The nature of rehabilitation treatment should be corrective. Symptoms and signs of recovery from sinusitis are associated with the elimination of all disorders, the removal of purulent mucus from the sinuses and the restoration of the normal functioning of the affected organs.

The strengthening of protective forces, not least, is associated with protecting a person from factors that can cause a second exacerbation. The likelihood of relapses is quite high, and after them a chronic form often develops.

At the same time, you do not have to take a lot of medications - this is even useless. The main thing is to achieve self-healing and strengthen the immune system. What needs to be done for this, first of all, is to change the traditional way of life:

Increase physical activity- do not start playing professional sports, of course, but do regular physical exercises. This will improve the intracellular process and provide the cells with vital energy.
Monitor your diet- eat more fresh fruits and vegetables, less often resort to the use of synthetic food. Do not forget about the benefits of vitamins - it may make sense to drink vitamin complexes.
Required water treatment- they will help to remove toxic deposits from the body, will contribute to the normalization of blood circulation.

Physical activity strengthens the immune system and reduces the likelihood of recurrence of the disease

Symptoms of complications and consequences after inflamed maxillary sinuses not only spoil a person's quality of life, but often turn out to be a real threat to her. All this suggests that it is desirable to fight the inflammatory process at the very beginning in order to avoid such problems.