A sinus infection is considered chronic if it lasts for more than an eight-week period, according to the Mayo Clinic. A sinus infection, or sinusitis, may be the result of severe allergies, the common cold or physical complications such as nasal polyps. People who suffer from chronic sinusitis may experience complications from the infection if not under a doctor's supervision and guidance. Medication or surgery may be appropriate to remedy your condition if it is related to an allergic reaction or physical complications. Talk to your doctor if you experience any of the following as it may be a sign of a serious complication.
Severe Pain
While sinus infections cause swelling in the sinus cavity, which leads to sinus pressure and head pain, the pain should be manageable with over-the-counter (OTC) pain medications. You should be able to function as normal in your daily routine without major restriction from pain. If you experience severe pain to a point that you are unable to stand or function normally, see your doctor. Severe pain in the eyes or the ears also may be a sign of an eye-socket infection or inner-ear infection.
Meningitis
Chronic sinus infections can lead meningitis, an infection of the lining around the brain that leads to swelling that can affect your spinal chord, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Meningitis symptoms can come on quickly with a high fever, confusion, difficulty in your vision and vomiting. Symptoms can form within an hour or can take a day or two to fully manifest. Meningitis is treated with common antibiotics and can be diagnosed by your doctor.
Vision Problems
A chronic sinus infection has the potential to affect a person's sight. Some common complications with chronic sinusitis are blurred vision, seeing double or seeing floaters. Some vision issues may be the result of severe inflammation in the sinus cavity, pressing on the back of the eyeballs. If an infection sets into the eye socket, you need to seek medical attention immediately, as this complication can lead to permanent eye damage or blindness.
High Fever
The body may develop a low-grade fever to fight off the infection. The Mayo Clinic recommends seeing a doctor if you develop a temperature higher than 100.5 degrees Fahrenheit. This may be a sign of complications from the sinusitis.
Swelling
Swelling in the forehead or around the cheeks may be sign of complications. Swelling in any area of the head can be a sign that the infection has spread. See your doctor for an analysis and recommended treatment.
