sinus with nausea

Overview

Sinus problems (also called sinusitis) happen when the lining of your sinuses — small air-filled spaces in your face — becomes swollen. Sometimes this can also make you feel sick or nauseous. That combination is often due to mucus dripping down your throat or pressure affecting your balance.

Yes, sinusitis affects millions of people each year. Nausea is a less common but known side effect.

It can affect people of any age, but it is more likely in people with allergies, asthma, a weakened immune system, or a structural issue in their nose.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Stuffy or runny nose
• Facial pain or pressure
• Headache
• Bad breath
• Cough that gets worse at night
• Nausea or upset stomach

Symptoms in children

• Blocked nose and mouth breathing
• Fussiness and tiredness
• Nausea or throwing up, especially after coughing
• Sometimes fever or ear pain

Symptoms in older adults

• Less fever and pain than younger adults
• More confusion or dizziness
• Nausea and poor appetite
• Longer-lasting congestion

Causes

Main causes

• Mostly viruses that also cause colds
• Bacteria when mucus is trapped for a long time
• Allergies (such as pollen or dust mites)
• Nasal polyps or a crooked nasal passage
• Tobacco smoke or other irritants

Risk factors

• Recent cold or flu
• Allergies or asthma
• Immune system problems
• Smoking or being around smoke
• Flying or heavy deep-water diving

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• Symptoms are severe or keep getting worse
• You have a very high fever or feel very unwell
• You see swelling around your eye
• You have a medical condition that makes you prone to complications (like diabetes or a weak immune system)

Book a routine appointment if:

• Symptoms last more than a week without improving
• You have sinus problems many times a year
• Your nausea is stopping you from eating or drinking
• You want advice on managing allergies or sinus rinses

Diagnosis

A doctor or nurse will ask about your symptoms and look in your nose with a small light. They may press on your face to check for tender areas.

Tests that may be done

• Usually no tests are needed
• If the problem doesn't go away, a doctor might refer you for a nasal endoscopy (a thin tube with a camera)
• Occasionally an X-ray or CT scan is helpful
• If you have very bad symptoms, a swab from your nose may be sent to a lab

What to expect at your appointment

The appointment can be quick. The doctor will gently examine you and explain whether your symptoms are from a virus, allergy, or bacteria. They'll tell you what to watch for.

Treatment

Treatment focuses on relieving your symptoms and helping your sinuses drain. Most cases are caused by viruses, so antibiotics aren't the first choice.

Self-care at home

• Drink plenty of water to keep mucus thin
• Inhale steam from a bowl of hot water (with care) or a warm shower
• Use a saline (saltwater) nasal spray or rinse to clear out mucus
• Rest with your head raised on pillows
• Use a cool-mist humidifier in your room
• Place a warm, moist cloth over your face for comfort

Medical treatments

Your pharmacist can suggest products to help clear your nose or ease pain. In some cases, a doctor may prescribe a nasal steroid spray to reduce swelling, or antibiotics if they think you have a bacterial infection. Always follow the advice of your healthcare professional.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is only considered for people who have serious or long-lasting sinus problems that don't improve with medical care. The goal of surgery is to open up blocked sinuses so they can drain naturally.

Living with this condition

If you know you have sinus flare-ups, try to avoid triggers like smoke or strong allergens. Keep the air in your home moist, especially in winter. Mild nausea can be settled by eating small, bland meals and sipping water gradually.

Lifestyle tips

• Stay active but avoid intense exercise when your face is painful
• Wash your hands often so colds and viruses spread less
• Manage allergies with the help of your doctor or pharmacist
• If you smoke, talk to your GP about support to quit

Diet and exercise

Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruit and vegetables. Being active helps your immune system work better, but if you feel dizzy, slow down and rest.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Living with a blocked nose and feeling sick can be frustrating. It may affect your sleep and mood. It's normal to feel a bit down. Try simple relaxation techniques, and don't be afraid to mention how you feel during a doctor's visit.

Prevention

You can reduce your chance of getting sinusitis by taking care of your nose, treating allergies early, and avoiding contact with people who have heavy colds.

Vaccines

Keeping up with routine vaccines, especially flu and pneumonia vaccines, can lower your risk of infections that may lead to sinus problems.

Screening programmes

There is no routine screening for sinusitis. But if you are prone to breathing problems, your doctor may check how your sinuses are doing during regular appointments.

Complications

If left untreated

• Very rarely, infection can spread to areas around the eye or brain
• Chronic sinusitis (lasting more than 12 weeks) can develop
• You may get repeated flare-ups that affect your quality of life
• Nausea from post-nasal drip may lead to poor appetite or lost fluids

Long-term outlook

The outlook is very good. Most sinus infections clear up with self-care or basic medical treatment. Even when sinus problems are long-term, there are many ways to manage the symptoms and improve your day-to-day comfort.

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