What Are Sinuses?

Sinuses are channels or cavities in bone or other tissue that are not blood or lymphatic vessels. They are in multiple places in our body and perform various functions [1]. However, the term “sinus” is often colloquially used as a substitution or is associated with the paranasal sinuses. Those are located near the nose and are connected to the nasal cavity [1].

Paranasal sinuses are cavities within the bones around the nose. They are filled with air and sterile. Their sterility is maintained by a healthy epithelium with normal actively beating cilia [2]. In addition, paranasal sinuses are paired [3].

There are four pairs of paranasal sinuses, each corresponding with the respective bone. Their names are maxillary, ethmoid, sphenoid and frontal [1]. The maxillary sinuses are located behind the cheekbones on both sides of your nose. For instance, the frontal sinuses are located right above your eyes near the forehead. The ethmoid sinuses consist of a collection of 6 to 12 small air cells. These small cells open independently into your nasal passage. They are situated between your eyes and the bridge of your nose. The sphenoid sinuses are located near the optic nerve behind the eyes and close to the centre of the head [3, 4].

The sinuses have a variety of functions. For example, they are responsible for lightening the weight of the head or humidifying and heating inhaled air. They also increase the resonance of speech and can serve as a crumple zone to protect vital structures in the case of facial trauma [5]. The paranasal sinuses produce mucus which drains into the nasal cavity and cleans the nose [6].

What Can Cause Dizziness?

Dizziness can be caused by a variety of factors and often times it is related to problems with the inner ear or brain. However, certain medical conditions can also elicit dizziness.

For instance, one common cause of dizziness is dehydration. Dehydration can result from not drinking sufficient amount of fluids or from losing too much fluid [7].

Medical conditions that can cause dizziness vary from neurological conditions to hematogenic conditions. For instance, patients with Parkinson’s disease and multiple sclerosis can experience progressive loss of balance leading to dizziness [8]. Further, anxiety disorders including panic attacks and agoraphobia can cause feelings of dizziness or lightheadedness [8]. Anemia, a condition characterized by a low red blood cell count can also cause dizziness [7]. This however is mainly due to decreased amount of oxygen [7].

Certain medications, including muscle relaxants, antiepileptic drugs, antihistamines, and blood pressure medications, can also cause dizziness [7]. Hypoglycemia, especially in people with diabetes can cause feelings of dizziness too [7]. However, certain medications can also lead to dizziness. Moreover, infections (like COVID-19), ear infections, cardiovascular issues, cardiomyopathy heart attack or even excessive exercise can cause dizziness.

Finally, certain conditions affecting the inner ear, such as benign positional vertigo (BPV), Meniere's disease, and acoustic neuroma, can cause dizziness and vertigo [7].

Can Sinus Pressure Cause Dizziness?

Sinusitis, which can result from allergies or respiratory illnesses (like the cold or flu) can lead to ETD. People most at risk for ETD include babies and children, people who smoke, people with cystic fibrosis, and those who have had surgery to remove their adenoids [9].

In addition to sinus pressure, allergies can also cause dizziness. This is because an allergy is the immune system’s response to a foreign substance that’s not typically harmful to your body. These foreign substances, or allergens, can include certain foods, pollen, or pet dander [10].

How To Treat Sinus Dizziness?

If you feel very dizzy or have vertigo due to sinus pressure, it's recommended to sit or lie down immediately. If you’re driving or operating any machinery, stop what you’re doing until the sensation passes. Since dehydration may play a role, try drinking water or a beverage containing electrolytes before resuming any activity [9].

If dizziness persists, consider taking an over-the-counter antihistamine, such as Dramamine (dimenhydrinate) or Benadryl (diphenhydramine). However, these medications can cause drowsiness, so do not take them if they interfere with medications you’re already taking for sinusitis or any other condition [9].

If the dizziness persists or comes and goes without warning, be sure to inform your healthcare professional [9].