Sinusitis and Balance Disorder in London

As the main specialist health clinic, Medstar Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) Clinic has treated countless patients experiencing sinusitis and balance disorder in London. Sinusitis, or inflammation of the sinuses, is a common condition that affects millions of people each year, including many patients across London and the surrounding areas.

The sinuses are air-filled cavities located around the nose, eyes, cheeks, and forehead. When the sinuses become inflamed or blocked, it causes sinusitis. 

One of the symptoms that often accompanies sinusitis is dizziness or balance problems. This is because the inner ear plays an important role in maintaining balance and orientation, and the sinuses are closely related to the inner ear through connecting tubes and passageways. The Medstar Clinic is a private balance disorder clinic serving London and surrounding areas. 

As one of the leading ENT specialists in London, we understand how both sinusitis and balance disorders can affect your quality of life. In this article, we will explore the connection between sinus infections and dizziness and provide information on how to book an appointment at our London clinic.

Can Sinus Problems Cause Dizziness?

It is a common concern among those dealing with ongoing sinus congestion: Could sinus pressure be causing episodes of dizziness or lightheadedness? While nasal issues alone typically do not lead to serious balance problems, in some cases they may contribute to feeling off-kilter. 

Your sinuses are located right next to structures involved in balance, like the inner ear. When sinuses become inflamed and swollen from a sinus infection or other issue like nasal polyps, the extra pressure can travel to the nearby middle ear through the Eustachian tube. 

This tube is essential for equalising pressure and draining mucus, but inflamed sinuses could potentially interfere with its normal functioning. If needed pressure regulation doesn't occur in the middle ear as a result, it can set off minor sensations of dizziness.

Fortunately, the connection between sinus and balance issues is far from definitive. Dizziness accompanying sinus problems usually signals something more serious may be occurring versus a direct causal relationship. And nasal congestion on its own rarely leads to ongoing, serious balance disorders. 

But seeing an ENT specialist is still wise if dizziness persists after sinus symptoms have cleared to check for other possible contributing factors. Identifying any complicating conditions early allows for the most effective treatment. 

At Medstar Clinic, our doctors are highly skilled at examining the sinus and ear structures to determine underlying causes of dizziness. We can alleviate sinus issues through options like medication and educate patients on proper at-home sinus care.

Vestibular Balance Disorder and Sinus Relation

While sinusitis may not directly cause true balance disorders, it is possible for it to complicate an existing vestibular problem. Vestibular balance disorder arises when there is dysfunction of the vestibular system, located in the inner ear. Any damage or impairment to the vestibular nerve or labyrinth can lead to difficulties with balance control, spatial awareness, and eye movements. 

Common vestibular conditions include benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), Ménière's disease, and vestibular neuritis. Persistent sinus pressure could potentially aggravate pre-existing vestibular problems by adding further strain to the delicate inner ear structures. Identifying and addressing sinus inflammation is an important part of vestibular disorder treatment for this reason.

Our ENT doctors at Medstar Clinic are specially trained to assess both sinus and vestibular system health. Through exams of the ear canal, eardrum, and nasal passages, we can determine whether sinus congestion may be playing a role in balance issues. 

In cases where sinusitis appears to complicate a known vestibular disorder, our goal is resolution of nose and sinus inflammation through targeted medical therapy and sinus-clearing techniques. We may also supply temporary prescription medications to help relieve disturbing vertigo symptoms. 

Our rehabilitation vestibular therapists can then take over with specialised exercises tailored to the individual's needs. With a combined treatment approach that treats both sinus and balance issues, outcomes are maximised.

How to Diagnose and Treat Balance Disorders?

Determining the root cause of balance problems first requires comprehensive diagnosis. At Medstar Clinic, our process begins with a full medical history and assessment of any current or recurring symptoms of dizziness, unsteadiness, or visual issues. 

We perform ear, nose, and throat exams jointly with balance tests by our vestibular specialists. Some key balance disorder diagnostic tools utilised include:

• Video head impulse testing tracks eye movements to diagnose vestibular weakness or damage.

• Rotary chair testing—assesses low- and high-frequency eye movements during rotation.

• Electronystagmography measures eye movements and calibrations during visual or movement stimuli

• Hearing tests rule out any inner or middle ear involvement.

Once we have identified the suspected balance disorder, a customised treatment approach is formulated. Many patients start with a short course of tailored exercises from our vestibular therapist for rehabilitation. For specific conditions, we may also recommend balance exercises, cold medications, steroids, or lifestyle modifications. 

In some cases of severe, long-term imbalance, gentamicin injections or surgery can be performed by our ENT surgeons. And as previously mentioned, resolving any complicating sinus conditions is also critical through options like medication or functional endoscopic sinus surgery. Our coordinated care ensures effective management of both nose/sinus and balance issues together.

How to Clear Blocked Sinuses?

Beyond surgical options, ongoing sinus maintenance also requires effective sinus-clearing strategies:

• Saline nasal irrigation or rinses using a neti pot or squeeze bottle promote drainage and soothe inflammation.

• Nasal saline sprays deliver moisturising medication deep in the nasal passages.

• Oral decongestants and antihistamines help shrink swollen nasal tissues.

• Sinus-friendly essential oil inhalations carry healing vapours to the sinus cavities.

• Steam inhalation from a hot shower soothes and thins out thick mucus.

• Proper hydration through daily water intake keeps sinus secretions thin and draining smoothly.

• Use of a humidifier adds moisture to indoor air when heating systems can dry things out.

• Good posture during sleep keeps gravity assisting drainage versus blocking pathways.

Following these multimodal self-care tactics daily is key to preventing blocked sinuses while minimising related symptoms. And do not forget that seeking medical evaluation by our ENT team is important should balance issues accompany sinus congestion that does not respond to home remedies. Working together, we can uncover contributing factors and customise an integrated treatment strategy.

Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery

For sinusitis patients whose symptoms are inadequately controlled through medication, surgical options may provide more complete sinus relief. Functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) utilises an endoscope—a thin, lighted camera—inserted through the nose. 

Working endoscopically allows our ENT surgeons to precisely modify sinus anatomy and drainage pathways that are restricted or blocked. Common procedures involve enlarging the sinus openings, removing polyps or growths, correcting a deviated septum, and sometimes modifying or removing inflamed sinus tissues.

Post-surgically, patients feel immediate improvement in their sinus congestion and pressure levels. Over time, following the guided at-home recovery plan from our staff, sinuses are better able to clear out unwanted mucus and allergens. 

For those whose sinusitis has aggravated an existing balance disorder, surgery's painstaking widening of sinus openings can help remove the added inner ear pressure. Although FESS recovery takes several weeks, long-term sinus drainage and ventilation are optimised. 

Combined with any needed vestibular therapies, balance issues should gradually improve as sinus inflammation stays reduced. If you are interested in learning more about whether FESS could benefit you, book an appointment online or over the phone to consult with an ENT doctor at Medstar Clinic.

Sinusitis alone does not typically cause serious long-term balance disorders. But it can potentially complicate an existing inner ear problem by adding pressure or restricting drainage. At Medstar Clinic, our expert ENT and vestibular specialists are uniquely poised to thoroughly evaluate sinus and balance health in tandem. 

Through coordinated medical management, surgical procedures as needed, and personalised therapy plans, we empower patients to regain full control over their sinus wellness and balance abilities. Book your appointment online today via the Medstar app from the Google Play Store or App Store, or call to learn more about our integrated care Medstar services.

Same Day Sinus Infection Appointment Near Me

It is quite common for sinus infections to cause temporary episodes of dizziness or a balance disorder. The sinuses are air-filled cavities located around the nasal passages and eyes. When sinuses become blocked and inflamed due to infection, bacteria, or allergens, it can disrupt the pressure in your ears, which plays a role in balance. 

This is because the Eustachian tubes, which connect the middle ear to the back of the throat, help regulate pressure. Sinus congestion can interfere with proper Eustachian tube function and cause temporary imbalance.

Thankfully, the Medstar Clinic offers same-day appointments for sinus infections right here in London. As a private clinic, we do no require a referral, and our ENT specialists can see and treat acute sinus issues promptly. If you're experiencing dizziness along with congestion, facial pain, and headaches, do not delay in getting checked out. 

We have early morning and evening appointment slots available most days to accommodate urgent needs. You can make an appointment online to be seen quickly by one of our doctors. Prompt treatment of sinus infections prevents complications and helps resolve symptoms, including vertigo, faster.

How to Book a Sinusitis and Balance Disorder Appointment?

For ongoing issues with both sinus problems and dizziness, it is best to see an ENT specialist like those at the Medstar Clinic for a thorough evaluation. Here are the simple steps to book your appointment:

• Visit our websiteç

• Click "Book an Appointment" and select the type of appointment needed—New Patient, Follow Up, etc.

• Fill out the online registration form with your contact details.

• Choose from available dates and times to schedule your appointment.

• Make any copayment if required.

• You will receive an electronic confirmation via email.

Upon arrival, you will check in at reception and be escorted back to an exam room to wait for your ENT doctor. They will perform a full examination to assess your sinus and ear health as well as your balance using specialised tests. Let us help uncover the root cause behind your symptoms so the appropriate treatment plan can begin.

What Happens at Your First ENT Appointment for Sinuses?

Your initial visit with an ENT doctor at the Medstar Clinic usually involves a thorough case history review as well as a physical exam. They will ask about your current sinus and dizziness symptoms, how long they have been occurring, and if there are any relevant medical issues or surgeries in your history. Based on this information, the specialist can narrow down potential causes.

The physical exam portion may include:

• Inspecting the nose, throat, and ears with light instruments

• Gently pressing on the sinuses to check for tenderness

• An inner ear examination using an otoscope

• Specialised balance tests like videonystagmography (VNG)

• Potentially a smell test to assess nasal obstruction impact

Depending on exam findings and discussion of concerns, the ENT may order additional tests to clarify the diagnosis:

• Sinus CT scan to view sinus anatomy in detail

• MRI to examine inner ear structures

• Allergy testing to identify triggers

• Hearing tests if hearing loss is suspected

After a complete appointment, the doctor can provide a clear diagnosis of sinusitis, a balance disorder, or both. Treatment strategies may include medications, surgery if needed, follow-up visits, and lifestyle recommendations. Addressing the underlying issue is important for relieving dizziness.

Sinusitis Clinic and Balance Disorder Clinic in London

The linked causes between sinus infections, more specifically chronic sinusitis, and balance problems have been increasingly recognised by experts. Nearly 1 in 5 cases of recurring vertigo may actually stem from chronic sinusitis, per recent studies. Thankfully, as a top private ENT group, the Medstar Clinic has the experience handling both sinusitis and balance disorder cases under one roof in our London clinic.

Our specialist team of ear, nose, and throat doctors is highly skilled in balancing conservative treatments with surgical options when needed. With sophisticated diagnostic technologies available to accurately diagnose issues, you can feel confident the root cause underlying your dizziness is identified. 

From personalised medical regimens to minimise recurrent infections to complex sinus surgeries performed by our fellowship-trained sinus surgeons, you'll receive coordinated, comprehensive care. If you have tried over-the-counter remedies for ongoing sinus congestion or pressure with dizziness without relief, it is time to see an ENT expert. 

The physicians at Medstar Clinic can evaluate you thoroughly through an appointment and devise an effective treatment algorithm customised for your particular case of sinusitis and balance disorder. Regain your quality of life through specialist care—book an appointment at our London clinic today online.

Medstar Private ENT Services

While the National Health Service (NHS) provides passable care, waiting times for specialist consultations such as ENT can be long at times. As a private practice, Medstar Clinic prides itself on flexibility and prompt access to leading ear, nose, and throat physicians. All our ENT specialists have private practice within our clinic to serve patients across London.

Some key advantages of choosing the Medstar Clinic for your sinusitis and balance disorder include:

• Same-day/next-day appointments available

• No referral necessary—self-referrals accepted

• Extended evening and weekend hours

• New digital check-in with online registration

• Treatments not limited by NHS guidelines or funding

• Private rooms for examinations and procedures

• Direct billing—no out-of-pocket costs upfront

• World-class specialists trained at top medical centres

If you suspect sinus infections are linked to bouts of dizziness, make the Medstar Clinic your one-stop solution. Our private ENT clinic provides comprehensive sinusitis and balance disorder care in London. 

Book your appointment today online—you do not have to suffer needlessly when solutions exist. Let our team of experts get you back to feeling your best. Your health and wellness are our priority. Contact us today!

#medicalspecialties