According to the Mayo Clinic, a sinus infection occurs when bacteria or a virus settles in the nasal cavity, causing the sinuses to become inflamed, which leads to nasal congestion, sinus pressure pain and nasal discharge. A common symptom of sinusitis is a thick, yellowish-green discharge from the nose with a mixture of blood, according to the National Jewish Medical and Research Center. While a bloody nose is considered a normal symptom of a sinus infection, a bloody nose can also be a sign of a more serious condition. A person should talk with her doctor for a proper diagnosis.
Sinus Headache
The University of Maryland states that sinus headaches are a throbbing pain in the middle of the head that are a common symptom of a sinus infection. Sinus headaches are the result of the inflamed sinus cavity placing pressure on the surrounding organs in the head such as the eyes, the ears and the upper teeth. A sinus headache can be accompanied by bloody discharge through the nose, but should be monitored if blood is ever tasted in the back of the throat with postnasal drip. An individual should talk with his doctor if he tastes blood in his throat.
Nasal Complications
The most common symptom of a sinus infection with a bloody nose is nasal complication such as nasal congestion, discharge and sinus obstruction, according to the Mayo Clinic. When the sinuses become inflamed, there is increased blood flow to the cavities, which is what causes the inflammation. Depending on how severe the inflammation is, a bloody nose can result with nasal drainage. The inflammation will also cause obstruction throughout the sinuses, reducing a person's ability to taste and smell properly, breathe through the nose and expel mucus.
Fatigue
The University of Maryland states that a sinus infection can make a person fatigued for two reasons: First, the excessive pressure placed on the eyes can make a person feel tired, even if their body isn't tired. The other reason is that the body's immune system is overworking itself to kill the infection. If the individual is taking antihistamines, she may also experience fatigue as a side effect to the medication, according to MedlinePlus.
Concerning Symptoms
A sinus infection with a bloody nose should be under a medical professional's observance. Sinusitis that is left untreated can lead to more serious conditions such an eye infection, meningitis and an ear infection, according to the Mayo Clinic. If a person experiences a stiff neck, swollen forehead, confusion, swelling around the eyes, shortness of breath, or a fever over 100.5 degrees Fahrenheit, he should seek medical attention immediately, according to the Mayo Clinic.
