Asinus infectioncan spread to the brain through the bloodstream or bone.
It is a rare occurrence but incredibly serious.
It will also cover the various conditions that are brought on by a sinus infection in the brain.
vm / Getty Images
vm / Getty Images
How Does a Sinus Infection Spread to the Brain?
The sinuses, also called sinus cavities, are hollow spaces in the skull surrounding the nose.
Sinuses produce mucus that drains into the nose.
A sinus infection producessinusitis(when the sinus cavities become inflamed).
Sinusitis could be due to an infection or other issues like allergies.
It is typically sparked by a cold that produces a secondarybacterial infection.
The sinus cavities are close to the brain.
This can cause a life-threatening infection.
These symptoms will differ based on the punch in of infection and where it is located.
These symptoms can include:
A brain infection is very serious.
At the extreme, certain situations would warrant a call to 911 or a visit to the emergency room.
The infection develops when bacteria move from the sinuses to the bloodstream and finally to the brain.
Meningitisis the inflammation of the meninges, the tissue that surrounds the spinal cord and brain.
It occurs suddenly, and the symptoms escalate rapidly.
Meningitis is a rare but very serious condition.
Encephalitisis inflammation of the brain.
It can range from mild to severe, with most cases being mild.
What Is Encephalitis?
Encephalitisis when the brain becomes inflamed.
Symptoms can range from mild and flu-like to much more severe.
Treatment will depend on the cause of the infection and its severity.
Encephalitis and meningitis are treated aggressively to prevent brain damage from swelling.
There are several types of treatments used.
A brain abscess is treated with medicine and possibly surgery.
If the abscess is deep within the brain then a needle aspiration may be used.
This includes:
Each provider and therapist will focus on a certain aspect of the body or body system.
They will work to help the person regain their abilities lost from the infection.
Summary
A sinus infection is generally a minor inconvenience that resolves on its own or with antibiotics.
However, it can cause serious complications if, in rare circumstances, it spreads to the brain.
When this happens the infection can cause meningitis, a brain abscess, or encephalitis.
Prompt medical treatment is necessary for these life-threatening complications.
National Institute of Neurologic Disorders and Stroke.Meningitis.
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.Encephalitis.
