What is a common complication of untreated chronic sinusitis?

Untreated chronic sinusitis can lead to several complications due to the proximity of the sinuses to surrounding structures. One significant complication is orbital cellulitis. This condition occurs when the infection spreads from the sinuses, particularly the ethmoid sinuses, to the orbit (eye socket). Orbital cellulitis is characterized by inflammation and infection of the tissues surrounding the eye, and it presents with symptoms such as eye swelling, redness, pain, and vision changes. This complication is considered a medical emergency because it can lead to serious outcomes, including vision loss or intracranial infection if not treated promptly.

While hearing loss, facial swelling, and throat infections can occur in association with sinonasal issues, they are less direct complications of chronic sinusitis compared to orbital cellulitis. Hearing loss is typically more related to issues with the Eustachian tube, facial swelling can occur from local tissue inflammation, and throat infections may arise from post-nasal drip, but none carry the immediate risks associated with orbital cellulitis.