What is a rare complication of sinusitis that can affect the eyes?

Periorbital cellulitis is a rare but serious complication of sinusitis that can affect the eyes. This condition occurs when the infection spreads from the sinuses to the soft tissues surrounding the eyes, leading to swelling, redness, and pain. The anatomical proximity of the sinuses to the orbit makes it feasible for infections to extend beyond the nasal passages and into the surrounding areas, including the eyelids and the fatty tissues around the eye.

Early recognition and treatment of periorbital cellulitis is crucial, as it can progress to more severe conditions, such as orbital cellulitis, which can threaten vision and require more aggressive management. Treating sinusitis effectively can help prevent this complication, highlighting the importance of understanding the potential risks associated with sinus infections.

While chalazion and conjunctivitis relate to eyelid and eye irritation, respectively, they are not complications of sinusitis. Retinal detachment is a serious condition that affects the retina but is not directly linked to sinusitis and thus does not fit in the context of sinus-related complications.