Sinusitis, or a sinus infection, is the inflammation of the lining of the sinus cavity. Sinusitis causes difficulty to breath through the nose and increased mucus production that can result in nausea. While nausea is not one of the primary symptoms of sinusitis, it can be related because of excessive pressure on the equilibrium or mucus in the stomach. Nausea may be a symptom of a more serious condition and needs to be observed by a doctor.
Nausea
Nasal discharge, in the form of post nasal drip, causes excessive mucus to drain into the stomach, according to MedlinePlus. The excessive mucus can make the stomach upset with feelings of uneasiness. Sinus pressure is a common symptom of a sinus infection that can have a direct effect on the inner ear. Pressure placed on the ear drum can cause someone to become nauseated and dizzy.
Nasal Congestion
Sinusitis causes inflammation in the sinus cavity, leading it to swell, according to MayoClinic.com. The swollen sinus cavity creates pressure throughout the head from trapped mucus. Nasal congestion makes it difficult to breathe through the nose and expel drainage. It can reduce the sense of smell and taste and cause sinus pressure.
Facial Pain
Facial pain is a common symptom of sinusitis, felt in the eyes, cheekbones, forehead and nose, according to FamilyDoctor.org. Facial pain is the result of sinus pressure pressing on the different parts of the head. For example, as the sinuses swell, the back of eyes experience increased pressure, making them sensitive to light and touch. Pain is also felt in some teeth, the back of the neck and the middle of skull. Most sinus headaches are worse in the morning and improve throughout the day.
Coughing
Coughing is common because of post nasal drip, according to MedlinePlus. The constant dripping of mucus, accumulates in the throat causing irritation that leads to coughing. The purpose of the cough is to break up the phlegm and rid it from the body. Over-the-counter medications such as expectorants and cough suppressants are used to treat this condition. The expectorant thins the mucus and the cough suppressant stops the constant cough.
Fever
MayoClinic.com states that a low-grade fever is common with sinusitis. The elevated body temperature is the body's way of warding off infection. It is recommended to see a doctor if a fever is higher than 100.5 degrees F.
