Warning Signs Of Cavernous Sinus Thrombosis

There are sinus cavities located throughout the skull. Behind each eye and beneath the frontal portion of the brain is the cavernous sinus. It is through this sinus cavity that venous blood runs from the head back to the heart. An infection or an injury anywhere in the head may result in the formation of a blood clot, or thrombus, in the cavernous sinus in the body's effort to prevent the spread of the infection. 

When this blood clot presses on the vein or any of the nerves within this cavity, it results in cavernous sinus thrombosis. This extremely rare condition can be life-threatening, so it is important to be aware of the symptoms in order to get the necessary treatment as soon as possible.

Drooping Eyelids

Eyelids that sag or droop can occur as a part of aging or as a symptom of a number of medical conditions. Drooping eyelids are also referred to as ptosis. Ptosis as a symptom of cavernous sinus thrombosis can occur if the blood clot is pressing on one of the nerves that controls the lifting of the eyelid or due to excessive swelling from an infection within the sinus cavity, resulting in sort of a paralysis effect of the eyelids. Ptosis may start unilaterally, with just one eye, but will quickly progress to include drooping of the other eyelid as well.