North Baltimore Journal

• 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. 
• Many 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. Jamie Oberman of Frederick Breathe Free, there are options for those who suffer from chronic sinusitis.

"It certainly can be quite debilitating," Dr. Oberman told the North Baltimore Journal. "The studies show that it certainly contributes to a loss of vitality, productivity, and quality of life. You don't have to live with it. There are solutions out there, and many of them are very well tolerated, minimally invasive, and almost risk-free.

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. Oberman earned his bachelor's degree from Boston College, according to Frederick Breathe Free's website. He pursued his graduate studies at Tufts Medical School through the Navy Health Professions Scholarship Program, a program similar to ROTC for aspiring medical professionals. After completing medical school, he began a career in the Navy, which spanned until his retirement in 2017, when he entered the field of comprehensive Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) medicine. He is currently the only physician performing balloon sinuplasty procedures in Maryland.