North Panhandle News

• 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. Matthew Blair of Gulf Coast Breathe Free, it can lead to other health problems if it isn’t treated.

"Nasal obstruction, chronic sinusitis, or chronic allergies really affect one's quality of life," Dr. Blair told the North Panhandle News. "If you have a poor outlook on life because you're always suffering from sinus issues, it's going to affect the rest of your general health. So if you can get your breathing and your nose in tip-top shape, you're going to feel better, you want to do more things, and you're going to overall improve your quality of health."

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 one in five 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. Blair earned his Bachelor of Science in Microbiology and Immunology with a minor in chemistry from the University of Miami, according to Gulf Coast Breathe Free's website. He subsequently obtained his medical degree from Nova Southeastern University in 2010. Following this, he pursued further education, completing his internship and residency at McLaren Oakland Hospital in Michigan, with a specific focus on otolaryngology and facial plastic surgery. He achieved board certification in 2015.