Concerns About Ongoing Sinus Symptoms
As a 32-year-old woman, I've been grappling with troubling sinus issues for the past month. It began with significant pressure and pain in my sinuses and face, accompanied by dizziness similar to that experienced during motion sickness whenever I moved around. After visiting an urgent care clinic, I was diagnosed with rhinitis, and they noted that there was a slight bulge in my right ear. Although I did not experience nasal congestion, I had post-nasal drip. The doctors prescribed naproxen and suggested using Flonase, which helped alleviate my symptoms within a week. However, about two weeks later, I noticed a resurgence of those same symptoms. This prompted me to consult with my ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist, who prescribed Augmentin, suggesting it could be a residual infection. For several days, I felt a significant improvement, but unfortunately, the symptoms have returned once more. The pressure has lessened compared to the initial week but is now mainly concentrated in the space between my eyes, my lower forehead, and my nose. As I prepare for a trip in two days, my ENT has sent in a prescription for a steroid taper, and I will have a follow-up appointment with him upon my return. I rarely experience sinus troubles, particularly the dizziness aspect, which makes me quite anxious about what this might indicate and why I’m struggling to fully resolve it.
Answers (1)
2/11/2026, 2:30:42 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you’re dealing with persistent sinus symptoms, including pressure and dizziness, which can indeed be frustrating and concerning. You’ve already taken proactive steps by consulting healthcare professionals and following their recommendations. Let's break down your situation and focus on what you can do now to help manage your symptoms effectively.
Main Points:
- Persistent sinus issues can be complex, often due to ongoing inflammation or infection.
- It's good that you have already seen specialists and have a treatment plan in place, including a steroid taper.
- Managing symptoms proactively before your trip is crucial.
Explanation:
Sinus pressure and pain can arise from various causes, including infections, allergies, or sinusitis. Given that you were treated with medications like Augmentin and Flonase, it seems like your doctors are addressing possible infections and inflammation. The dizziness you're experiencing may be associated with sinus pressure affecting your inner ear balance.
Since you noted a resurgence of symptoms after initial improvement, this indicates that your inflammation might not fully resolve, or there could still be some irritation or other underlying issues. Your upcoming steroid taper should help reduce inflammation further.
Next Steps:
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Continue Taking Medications as Prescribed: Follow the steroid taper as directed. It is crucial for reducing inflammation in your sinuses and ears.
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Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water. Staying hydrated helps thin mucus and may reduce pressure in your sinuses.
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Nasal Irrigation: Using a saline nasal spray or performing a nasal rinse (using a neti pot) can help clear excess mucus and allergens from your nasal passages, providing some relief.
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Steam Inhalation: Inhaling steam from hot water (e.g., in a bowl or shower) can help relieve sinus pressure and promote drainage. Just be cautious not to burn yourself with the hot water.
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Rest and Manage Stress: Try to get adequate rest and consider gentle relaxation techniques, as stress can exacerbate symptoms and make you feel worse.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in your symptoms, including the intensity of pressure, dizziness, and any other new symptoms. This information will be valuable for your follow-up appointment with your ENT.
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Prepare for Your Trip: If your symptoms feel manageable, be sure to take any medications you might need with you, including your steroid taper and Flonase, to maintain your treatment regimen while traveling.
Lastly, it’s completely normal to feel anxious about these ongoing symptoms, especially since they’re affecting your daily life. If you continue to experience significant discomfort or if new symptoms arise, consider reaching out to your ENT even while you are away to discuss any concerns. Safe travels!
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