Sinus infections can sideline even the most successful performers.
In November of 2019, Lady Gaga was forced to cancel a show because of a sinus infection. The musical superstar, formerly known as Stefani Joanne Angelina Germanotta, communicated via social media and apologized to her fans.
"I’m so devastated," Lady Gaga wrote in a Nov. 6, 2019, tweet. "I can’t perform tonight for so many people who traveled to come see me. I have a sinus infection and bronchitis and feel very sick and sad. I never want to let you down. I’m just too weak and ill to perform tonight. I love you, little monsters. I’ll make it up to you. I promise."
Sinus experts at Arizona Breathe Free Sinus & Allergy Centers are recommending that patients be aware of the potential seriousness of sinus infections and to seek appropriate treatment before the issue becomes debilitating.
Sinus infections occur as a result of sinusitis. Sinusitis occurs when your sinuses — or the hollow, tissue-lined cavities in your skull— are inflamed and fluid builds up, allowing bacteria or viruses to grow, according to the U.S. National Library of Medicine.
"Sinusitis, by definition, is inflammation of the sinuses. As inflammation of the sinuses becomes chronic, it makes it more challenging for sinuses to function optimally," Diana Ruiloba, physician assistant at Arizona Breathe Free Sinus & Allergy Centers, told Arizona Business Daily. "Over time, chronic sinusitis can lead to a lack of functionality, which leads to persistent symptoms of nasal obstruction, facial pressure/pain and posterior nasal drainage. These persistent symptoms then begin to affect quality of life."
Common symptoms of sinus infections include nasal congestion, discolored mucus from the nose, postnasal drainage, facial pain, facial pressure and decreased sense of smell and taste. Sinus infections can seriously hinder performance of everyday activities and lower productivity.
"Sinusitis can impact quality of life in many ways," Ruiloba added. "It can impact life from a sleep standpoint. If you are not breathing well, you are not sleeping well. If you are not sleeping, well you are not able to perform daily tasks to your best potential."
The nose is essentially an air filtration system. Its passages are connected to the airways, sinuses, throat and lungs, meaning nasal congestion relief when you’re sick is more important than just feeling better. It is key for our health to take good care of our sinuses.
If you suffer from sinus issues, take this Sinus Self-Assessment Quiz to evaluate your symptoms.