Brain Fog? It Might Be Chronic Sinusitis
Also known as a sinus infection, chronic sinusitis arises when your sinuses face blockage. Although acute sinusitis is temporary and usually only lasts a few days, chronic sinusitis often persists for more than 12 weeks. So, what exactly causes chronic sinusitis? It may be the result of a deviated septum, allergies, asthma, fungus, weak immunity, or polyps, which are abnormal tissue growths.
What is Brain Fog?
One of the most common symptoms of chronic sinusitis is brain fog. Essentially, brain fog is a condition that affects your brain and leads to memory problems and the inability to focus and think as you normally would. If your thinking is "fuzzy" and brain isn't as sharp as it used to be, you may have brain fog.
Unfortunately, brain fog can take a serious toll on your quality of life. It can interfere with your productivity and prevent you from completing everyday tasks at work, school, or home. If you have brain fog due to chronic sinusitis, you may be mentally fatigued and struggle with day-to-day life.
Treating Chronic Sinusitis
If you're living with chronic sinusitis, it's important to seek medical attention right away. This is particularly true if it's causing serious symptoms such as brain fog. If an ENT doctor determines chronic sinusitis stems from an underlying condition like allergies or asthma, they may suggest treating it through medications, sprays, and other conservative measures.
The reality however is that you may need surgery. If your chronic sinusitis is due to polyps, a deviated septum, or another structural abnormality, a surgical procedure can alleviate your symptoms, including brain fog and reduce your risk of infections. It may also improve your sense of smell and make it easier for you to breathe through your nose.
Common Surgeries for Chronic Sinusitis
If surgery is necessary, an ENT doctor will likely suggest an endoscopy or balloon sinuplasty. During an endoscopy, they'll insert a thin and flexible tube in your nose so they can identify exactly where your sinuses are blocked and remove the scar tissue and polyps. Since there is no cutting of the skin, endoscopy often leads to a speedy recovery.
In the event an ENT doctor doesn't have to remove anything from your sinuses, they may perform a balloon sinuplasty where they place a thin tube with a balloon in your nose. The balloon will inflate and relieve congestion while improving draining.
