Cavernous sinus thrombosis - Complications of cavernous sinus thrombosis

About one in three people with cavernous sinus thrombosis die, and many people who survive it go on to develop further problems.

The condition leads to long-term symptoms in around 1 in 10 people, including seizures (fits) and severe headaches.

Vision problems

Problems with vision are also a relatively common complication of cavernous sinus thrombosis. About one in six people experience some degree of permanent visual impairment.

However, permanent blindness is less common, affecting around 1 in 160 people.

Blood clots

There is a risk that another blood clot may develop elsewhere in the body, for example:

• the legs – this is known as deep vein thrombosis and affects around 1 in 40 people
• the lungs – this is known as a pulmonary embolism and affects around 1 in 200 people
• the brain – this triggers a stroke and affects around 1 in 330 people

These conditions are very serious and can be fatal.

Infection

Complications can also occur if the infection spreads beyond the cavernous sinuses. These complications can include:

• meningitis – this is an infection of the outer protective layer of the brain and can cause symptoms such as a stiff neck, mental confusion and sensitivity to light
• sepsis or blood poisoning – this can cause symptoms such as chills, a fast heartbeat and rapid breathing

Both of these conditions are very serious and can be fatal, especially if they're not treated promptly.