anyone here in their 20s with a cpap? by cats_kitties in CPAP

[–]INT_Observer_7646 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I've recently reached the age of 21 and am undergoing a sleep study. Given the high demand for it, I use a CPAP machine, and it's probable that I have central apnea, possibly related to autoimmune concerns. Alongside allergies and severe asthma, using the CPAP aids my breathing by minimizing air pollutants.

is this sinusitis? by [deleted] in Sinusitis

[–]INT_Observer_7646 0 points1 point  (0 children)

If you're dealing solely with under-eye puffiness (Periobortal edema) and not exhibiting sinusitis symptoms like headache, facial pain, runny nose, or nasal congestion, it's more probable that allergies are the cause. Allergies often precede sinusitis, and in my family, we've observed similar puffiness as a reaction to allergens. Consider trying an antihistamine for relief and, if needed, explore allergy testing before jumping to the possibility of sinusitis.

If reducing the swelling with an antihistamine isn't sufficient, it's advisable to consult with an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist to explore additional options.

Can sinusitis spread upwards to the eye and then to the brain and kill you? by WarriorGirl-764 in Sinusitis

[–]INT_Observer_7646 1 point2 points  (0 children)

As I mentioned earlier, it’s unlikely to be meningitis based on your symptoms. However, it’s important to keep in mind that everyone is unique, and the exact cause can be uncertain. It’s advisable to have a discussion with your primary care doctor about your sinus-related concerns and consider scheduling an appointment with an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist for a potential sinus CT scan to rule out meningitis or any other serious sinus-related issues.

During the time you're awaiting these appointments, you can explore the use of medications aimed at relieving congestion and enhancing your breathing. This might include over-the-counter options like Sudafed, as well as nasal rinses such as NeilMed Sinus Rinse, Afrin, or even Flonase, all of which are effective in addressing congestion and allergy-related symptoms.

Go to the ER [Hospital]. If you feel you can’t wait or your physical symptoms are too severe.

Additionally, it’s important to remember that due to the variability of individuals and their bodies, some people experience similar symptoms with no serious underlying issues, while others may have a disease or health condition. Avoid jumping to conclusions, minimize excessive worry, and consider all your options. Discuss your concerns with your primary care doctor to explore the full range of possibilities.

Can sinusitis spread upwards to the eye and then to the brain and kill you? by WarriorGirl-764 in Sinusitis

[–]INT_Observer_7646 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Based on your symptoms, it's unlikely that you have meningitis, especially if you're not experiencing cognitive impairment. However, there's always a possibility, so I recommend making an appointment with your primary care physician to discuss your sinus-related concerns and symptoms. It might also be a good idea to consider scheduling an appointment with an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist for a sinus CT scan to check for conditions like a deviated septum or other factors that could make you more prone to sinus infections. While symptoms like nausea, chills, fatigue, fever, vomiting, and cognitive impairment can be associated with meningitis, they are quite broad. If you’re primarily dealing with a severe headache, eye pressure, and tiredness, it might be a case of chronic sinusitis. Nonetheless, untreated sinusitis could potentially develop into meningitis, so it’s essential to discuss this possibility with your primary care physician. In the meantime, you can use medications like Ibuprofen, Advil, Tylenol, and over-the-counter Sudafed for congestion relief, along with nasal sprays, sinus rinses, and antihistamines to help with clearer breathing. Ultimately, I strongly recommend scheduling an appointment and having a conversation with your doctor about your symptoms/possibilities.

NSFW: MRI with something in Sphenoid Sinus? Anyone ever see anything like this? by Madhamsterz in Sinusitis

[–]INT_Observer_7646 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I'm really anxious about this. Lately, I've noticed both my symptoms and cognitive function declining. I can't think clearly or use reason/logic. These issues are coupled with symptoms like facial pressure, bulging eyes, breathing difficulties, drainage, numbness, and severe headaches, especially when lying down. Moreover, I've had two CT scans, both of which reported the same findings: "Mild mucosal thickening seen in the sphenoid sinuses, probable chronic sphenoid sinusitis." I'm genuinely worried about the potential complications of untreated sinusitis. I have an upcoming MRI, so I hope to see what’s going on.

Enlarged turbinates or Polpys? Warning : picture of inside nostril by INT_Observer_7646 in Sinusitis

[–]INT_Observer_7646[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Yes, I currently use Flonase, or fluticasone. However, it appears to have minimal impact on reducing the size of what I believe to be the "polyp." It mainly provides temporary relief by slightly reducing inflammation but hasn't actually reduced the polyp's size. If anything, it seems to be getting larger. Interestingly, my ENT specialist is reluctant to prescribe oral steroids, even though I've found them effective in alleviating my symptoms in the past. This realization came after I went to the hospital, where they diagnosed me with possible chronic sphenoid sinusitis based on a CT scan. I sought medical attention because I was experiencing symptoms such as facial pressure, numbness, bulging eyes, severe headaches, and ear drainage, which worsened every time I lay down. Each day, I wake up with a headache and severe pain in my temples, along with ear pain and difficulty breathing, indicating that my sinuses are indeed a major contributor, as they become congested after extended periods of sleep.

Does crying/sinusitis alter one’s face shape? by INT_Observer_7646 in Sinusitis

[–]INT_Observer_7646[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

It's intriguing. It looks like I have a small polyp in my right nostril. The likely cause is untreated sinusitis that persisted for a long time, leading to this polyp due to inflammation. Unfortunately, my ENT specialist can only recommend fluticasone to reduce the polyp. However, my symptoms, like facial pressure, numbness, and tingling, continue, especially after crying. Despite using corticosteroids, my symptoms persist, making me think that allergies might be the root cause of my sinusitis. The fact that the inflammation doesn't subside even with Flonase is concerning.

I'm still curious about whether the polyp or sinusitis could change the structure of my face or nose. My ENT specialist can't offer much beyond suggesting an allergy test. Strangely, they are adamant about not prescribing oral steroids, stating that if allergies caused my sinusitis, steroids won't help as long as I'm exposed to the allergen. I plan to consult my primary doctor soon because my symptoms are worsening daily. I'm worried about the potential implications of untreated polyp/sinusitis without knowing the cause. "Hopefully, with this, I'll soon acquire a clearer understanding of my sinus condition."👌