In more severe cases, the bacterial or viral infection causing the sinusitis can travel from the sinuses to the ear, causing an actual ear infection (otitis media). This directly impacts the vestibular system, leading to more intense dizziness.

If you have spinning vertigo without congestion or facial pain, the cause may lie solely within the inner ear and not the sinuses.

Sinusitis, dizziness, vertigo, eustachian tube, vestibular system, rhinosinusitis

You are battling a sinus infection. Your face hurts, your head is pounding, and your nose is congested. But then, you stand up too fast, and the room tilts. You feel unsteady, maybe even a bit nauseous.

While dizziness from sinusitis is annoying, it usually resolves as the infection clears. However, you should see a doctor immediately if:

Your sinuses and your ears are connected by the . This narrow canal equalizes pressure on both sides of your eardrum. When you are healthy, this tube opens and closes seamlessly, keeping the pressure balanced.