Pinellas Times

• February was declared National Heart Month in 1964 in order to raise awareness of heart disease in the United States.
• Many people with chronic sinusitis might not realize that untreated sinus issues can lead to cardiovascular issues. 
• Studies have shown that chronic sinusitis increases the chances of stroke and even heart disease.

Untreated sinus issues can cause many different problems down the line, and it is important to remember during American Heart Month the links between chronic sinusitis and cardiovascular health. According to Dr. Mariah Pate of Tampa Bay Breathe Free, sinusitis can lead to serious issues such as stroke and heart problems.

"Sinus problems really do affect the quality of life that they could experience. Also, it can affect other parts of the body, like increasing the risk of stroke and other heart issues," Dr. Pate told the Pinellas Times. "Overall, the sinuses really do affect everything, especially energy levels and the ability to interact day to day and have a good quality of life."

According to the CDC, February is American Heart Month, where people are encouraged to focus on their cardiovascular health. This year, the Division for Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention is encouraging women specifically to speak up for their health. The month is meant to reinforce the importance of heart health.

In 2005, a prospective cohort study from the Taiwan Longitudinal Health Insurance Database concluded that both acute and chronic sinusitis (CRS) are risk markers for stroke and that they are completely separate from traditional markers for stroke.

According to Next Avenue, sinus problems are common among Americans, affecting 1 in 5 adults annually, leading to headaches and congestion. However, a study from Taipei Medical University revealed a link between sinus inflammation and stroke risk, with chronic sinusitis increasing the odds by 34% and acute infections by 39%. This risk is particularly heightened for adults in midlife. Seeking medical attention for persistent symptoms beyond 7 to 10 days is advised due to the broader health implications associated with sinus inflammation.

Further studies have shown that there is an increased risk of cardiovascular disease with chronic sinusitis, such as a 2022 study by the International Rhinologic Society.

Dr. Pate, a certified otolaryngologist, graduated magna cum laude from the University of Florida, according to Tampa Bay Breathe Free's website. She earned her medical degree from Quillen College of Medicine at East Tennessee State University, finishing in the top 5% of her class. Dr. Pate completed her otolaryngology internship and residency at the Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University.