NE Valley 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. Franklyn Gergits of the Sinus and Allergy Wellness Center of North Scottsdale, sinusitis can lead to serious issues such as stroke and heart problems.

"If we're not getting good sleep, then our heart rate could increase when we're sleeping at night. That can lead to cardiovascular stressors that might be linked to our nasal airway. So, if our airway is not maximized, then we might see situations like stroke and heart attacks that could occur from inflammation that needs to be gone."

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.

According to the Sinus and Allergy Wellness Center of North Scottsdale's website, Dr. Gergits earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in chemistry from West Virginia University. Afterward, he went on to earn a Master of Science in biochemistry from Lehigh University in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. Dr. Gergits completed his education, earning a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine.