Grand Canyon Times

Sinus infections can greatly hinder the performance of just about everyone who is affected by them, including Lady Gaga.

In a Nov. 6, 2019 tweet, Lady Gaga apologized to fans for having to cancel a show in Las Vegas due to a sinus infection. 

“I’m so devastated," she tweeted. "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.”

Though many people suffer from chronic sinus infections, those who don’t have nasal or sinus issues have no idea how painful, uncomfortable and inconvenient those issues can be. 

“For the unfortunate millions of people who are suffering with chronic sinus issues, all of these sinus issues trickle down into every facet of their life. Because when you're not breathing through your nose, you're not sleeping well and then you don't have the proper energy. You feel foggy all the time,” Dr. Brian Lee of the Scottsdale Sinus and Allergy Center told the Grand Canyon Times. 

According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, sinuses are the hollow, tissue-lined cavities inside of the skull. Sinus infections occur when these become inflamed and fluid builds up, allowing for bacteria or viruses to grow. The longer a person waits to receive treatment, the more likely they may be to need repeat procedures to completely eliminate the infection or inflammation.

“There have been multiple studies showing that the earlier that you intervene in the disease process, the better the long-term outcome. So you never want to wait until your sinuses are an absolute mess,” Lee said.

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. 

With the nose essentially acting as an air filtration system and connecting to the airways, sinuses, throat and lungs, nose congestion relief is more important when you're sick than simply feeling better. Because of this, taking good care of your sinuses is always key to maintaining good health.

Prospective patients may evaluate their symptoms by taking the Scottsdale Sinus and Allergy Center's Sinus Self-Assessment Quiz.