If you’ve been experiencing a sore and uncomfortable sensation in your eyes, you’re very likely— and understandably—frustrated. You probably want to know what’s wrong with your eyes and how to fix the problem.
However, sinus infections are easy to mistake for other eye conditions. If you ever notice significant discomfort or vision changes, visit your optometrist.
What Are Sinuses?
Sinuses are air-filled spaces inside your skull that connect to your nasal passages. They act as natural air filters by trapping harmful particles, which prevents them from reaching your lungs. When they’re working efficiently, your sinuses protect you from infections and irritants.
Your sinuses can be divided into four main regions. These include:
- Frontal sinuses, located in the forehead above your eyes.
- Maxillary sinuses, found on either side of your nose near the cheekbones.
- Ethmoid sinuses, located between your eyes, closer to the bridge of your nose.
- Sphenoid sinuses, located deeper in your skull, behind the ethmoid sinuses.
Each plays an essential role in keeping your respiratory system healthy.
What Causes Sinus Infections?
Sinus infections, also called sinusitis, occur when the tissue lining your sinuses becomes inflamed. This often happens when your filtration system is overwhelmed by allergens, viruses, bacteria, or fungi.
As inflammation takes hold, mucus builds up in the sinuses. This thick fluid traps the contaminants to prevent the spread of problematic particles. However, it can also cause nasal pressure and discomfort as your body’s protective systems come into play.
Common triggers for sinus infections include seasonal allergies, colds, or exposure to polluted environments. While most infections clear up on their own, some require medical intervention to avoid complications.
Common Signs of a Sinus Infection
Sinus infections cause a range of uncomfortable symptoms. Typically, you can recognize a sinus infection by:
- Thick or discoloured mucus
- Pressure and pain in the face
- Headaches, particularly near the forehead or around the eyes
- A reduced sense of smell and taste
- Postnasal drip
- Bad breath
- Fever
You might also notice changes in your voice due to congestion. Your voice might sound more nasal than usual, or you may run out of breath when speaking. While these symptoms tend to be brief, persistent discomfort or worsening signs could indicate a more serious infection.
Why Do Sinus Infections Inflame the Eyes?
The connection between your sinuses and your eyes lies in their close anatomical relationship. Since nasal passages run around, beneath, and behind your eyes, sinus infections can quickly spread their effects to this sensitive area.
When inflammation occurs, it leads to swelling that puts pressure on the tissues surrounding your eyes. This can cause symptoms like redness, eye pain, and sometimes even blurry vision.
Sinus Infections & The Eyelids
Your immune system may also respond aggressively to infection. This can lead to additional symptoms, like irritated eyelids and discharge around the eyes, which can make it difficult to determine if the problem stems from your sinuses alone.
If you’re experiencing persistent discomfort, it helps to seek professional advice. The redness caused by infections can lead to inflammation of your eyelids, which is easy to mistake for other serious eye conditions. But when it comes to your eye health, it’s better to be safe than sorry.
How to Treat Sinus Infections
There are several ways to manage sinusitis at home. It helps to:
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water to help thin mucus and promote drainage.
- Use a humidifier or inhale steam to keep nasal passages moist and reduce congestion.
- Apply a warm compress to your face to relieve sinus pressure and alleviate pain.
- Rinse your nasal passages with a saline solution to clear out mucus and irritants.
Persistent symptoms lasting more than a week warrant a visit to a healthcare professional. If you experience sudden changes in eye health, you should consult with a medical professional right away to help rule out more severe complications.
Can an Optometrist Help With Sinus Infections?
It’s not uncommon for sinus infections to overlap with vision problems. Swelling, pressure, and immune responses can all create discomfort in the eyes and can sometimes cause vision changes.
When you notice eye symptoms like swollen eyes, redness, or blurred vision, make sure to visit your optometrist. They can assess your eye health and determine if sinusitis is causing your symptoms—or find out if there’s something more serious at play.
Visit Our Team to Find Relief
Sinus infections can be painful and affect many areas of your body, including your eyes. Recognizing the symptoms and taking timely action can do a lot to relieve discomfort. If you’re dealing with vision problems, come visit our team at Clarity Optometry & Vision Care. We can help you find relief and enjoy clear, comfortable vision once more. Schedule an appointment with us today!
