Dr. Doctor--
I am scheduled for sinus surgery on 5/19/97 due to chronic sinusitis which a CT scan shows all of my sinuses as basically closed off with infection. I also have asthma, which has been exacerbated by the sinusitis. Last night I woke up to use the restroom and became quite disoriented. I wandered around the house trying to find the restroom. Obvioiusly this was quite disturbing to me. I take an antidepressant (Serzone, 300 mg) at nighttime, along with 0.5 mg Ativan. I have never before had an incident like this. I am having problems concentrating and am having difficulty with my memory as well. Could these neurological symptoms be related to the sinusitis?
Reply: -----------------------
The symptom of disorientation such as you have described is not by itself suggestive of sinus disease - chronic sinus infection however does have the potential for central nervous system complications and therefore your question would be best answered by the physician who is treating your sinus disease. On the other hand, if what you are describing is actually vertigo (the sensation of movement or spinning frequently associated with some degree of nausea), then it is possible that you could be experiencing an ear problem indirectly associated with the sinus condition. Again, the physician treating your sinus disease would be the best person to address this possibility.
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Steve Dankle, MD
Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery
Milwaukee, Wis
NOTICE: OFCN is not engaged in the rendering of professional medical services. The information contained on this system or any other OFCN system should not supplant individual professional consultation. It is offered exclusively as a community education service. Advice on individual problems must be obtained directly from a professional.
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