Can a sinus infection cause shortness of breath? An in-depth look

Can a Sinus Infection Cause Breathlessness?

Sinus infections, also known as sinusitis, can cause a variety of uncomfortable symptoms. One symptom that sometimes occurs with sinus infections is a feeling of breathlessness or difficulty breathing. In this article, we'll explore the connection between sinus infections and breathlessness, look at why it happens, and discuss treatment options.

What is a Sinus Infection?

Sinus infections occur when the sinus cavities become inflamed. The sinus cavities are air-filled spaces located behind the forehead, cheeks, and eyes. When the sinus cavities become inflamed due to a viral, bacterial, or fungal infection, it is called sinusitis.

Some common symptoms of sinusitis include:

• Facial pressure and pain
• Nasal congestion and discharge
• Reduced sense of smell
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Fever
• Headache
• Fatigue

Sinus infections can be acute (lasting less than four weeks) or chronic (lasting 12 weeks or longer). Acute sinusitis often occurs after a viral upper respiratory infection (like a cold) that lingers in the sinuses. Chronic sinusitis is typically caused by prolonged inflammation in the sinuses and is less likely to be caused by an infectious agent.

Can Sinus Infections Cause Breathlessness?

Yes, sinus infections can sometimes cause a feeling of breathlessness or difficulty breathing. Here are some reasons why:

Nasal Congestion

One of the hallmark symptoms of a sinus infection is nasal congestion. Swelling in the sinus passages and increased mucus production can block airflow through the nose. This nasal obstruction forces you to breathe through your mouth instead. Mouth breathing is less efficient and can make it feel like you're not getting enough air, leading to a feeling of breathlessness.

Inflammation Around the Breathing Passages

The sinus cavities are located close to important breathing structures like the nose, throat, and windpipe. When the sinuses are inflamed due to an infection, this inflammation can sometimes spread to surrounding structures. Swelling in the nose, throat, larynx, or trachea can make breathing feel more difficult and create a feeling of air hunger or suffocation.

Postnasal Drip

Thick, excessive mucus is a common symptom of sinus infections. This mucus can drip from the sinuses down the back of the throat, which is known as postnasal drip. Mucus accumulation at the back of the throat can cause irritation and a feeling of congestion. It can also trigger coughing as the body tries to expel the excess phlegm. This can make breathing feel impaired.

Chest Congestion

Sinus infections can sometimes lead to chest congestion. This occurs when thick mucus drips from the sinuses into the throat and is swallowed. The mucus can irritate the airways and accumulate in the bronchial tubes of the lungs. This creates a feeling of tightness in the chest and shortness of breath.

Other Causes of Breathlessness

While sinus infections are one potential cause of breathlessness, there are other medical conditions that can also present with difficulty breathing:

• Asthma - bronchial airway constriction
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) - lung damage
• Pneumonia - infection of the lungs
• Pulmonary embolism - blood clot in lung artery
• Heart failure - impaired heart function
• Anxiety - hyperventilation

It's important to see a doctor to obtain an accurate diagnosis if you are experiencing unexplained breathlessness along with sinus infection symptoms. Breathlessness that comes on suddenly or is severe should be evaluated promptly by a medical professional.

Treating Sinusitis to Improve Breathing

The good news is that treating the underlying sinus infection should help improve breathlessness caused by inflamed sinus cavities. Here are some treatment options:

Nasal Steroid Sprays

Nasal steroid sprays like Flonase can help reduce sinus inflammation and swelling. This can help open nasal air passages and make breathing easier.

Nasal Saline Rinses

Rinsing the nasal passages with a saltwater solution can help thin out mucus secretions and flush out bacteria. This helps open nasal airflow.

Decongestants

Oral or nasal decongestants constrict blood vessels in the sinuses, reducing swelling. This provides sinus congestion relief.

Pain Relievers

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can help reduce sinus pain and pressure caused by inflammation.

Antibiotics

For bacterial sinus infections, doctors may prescribe antibiotics to kill the bacteria causing infection. This helps resolve sinus swelling and congestion.

Sinus Rinses

For chronic sinusitis, rinsing the sinus cavities with saline using a device like a neti pot can provide long-lasting relief by diluting mucus and removing allergens.

Humidifier

Using a humidifier adds moisture to the air, helping thin mucus secretions for easier drainage. This improves congestion.

Rest

Getting adequate rest allows your body to devote energy towards fighting infection to help you recover faster.

Hydration

Drinking lots of fluids like water and broth helps thin out mucus discharge and prevents dehydration.

When to See a Doctor

You should see a doctor if:

• Symptoms last more than 10 days without improvement
• Symptoms worsen rapidly
• You have a high fever (over 101F)
• You have severe facial pain or swelling
• You have vision changes or eye swelling
• You have severe headaches
• You have shortness of breath
• You have symptoms that interfere with sleep
• You have weakened immune system from medication or illness
• You have frequent sinus infections (more than 3-4 per year)

A doctor can provide an accurate diagnosis using a physical exam and imaging tests. They can determine if antibiotics are needed for treatment. For recurrent or chronic sinusitis, they may refer you to a specialist like an allergist or ENT.

When to Seek Emergency Treatment

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Sudden, severe shortness of breath
• Wheezing or gasping for breath
• Bluish discoloration of the lips and fingernails
• Confusion, drowsiness or loss of consciousness
• Fever above 103F
• Facial swelling or drooping
• Sudden vision changes or loss of vision
• Severe, sharp head pain

These symptoms may indicate a rare but serious sinus infection complication and require urgent evaluation and care.

Preventing Future Sinus Infections

Once a sinus infection clears, you can take steps to avoid getting another infection that could lead to breathlessness. These include:

• Using a nasal saline rinse daily to flush out allergens and keep sinuses moist
• Taking antihistamines or decongestants during allergy season
• Avoiding irritants like cigarette smoke that can trigger sinus swelling
• Using a humidifier to keep nasal passages hydrated
• Taking zinc, vitamin C and echinacea to boost immunity
• Getting an annual flu vaccine to prevent viral infections that can lead to sinusitis
• Seeing an allergist for evaluation if you have recurrent sinus infections

The Bottom Line

Sinus infections cause inflammation in the sinus cavities near breathing passageways. This can lead to nasal congestion, postnasal drip, coughing and chest congestion. These effects can create a feeling breathlessness. Treating the underlying infection and inflammation along with good preventive care helps resolve sinus infection-related breathing issues. See a doctor if breathlessness is severe, comes on suddenly, or occurs along with other concerning symptoms. Addressing sinusitis provides relief and prevents troublesome breathing difficulties.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.