Causes of Sinusitis

The sinuses are the small air chambers located behind the jaw, eyes and cheeks. An estimated 20 million Americans suffer from sinus infections each year, a condition which typically includes symptoms such as headache or fever, pressure around the face, nasal congestion and coughing.

Sinusitis is a condition in which the sinuses are infected or inflamed, which prevents them from being able to remove bacteria effectively from the body. There are several causes of sinusitis, and those with certain pre-existing medical conditions are also more at risk. Even such things as experiencing a change in altitude while flying or diving can cause sinusitis.

The most common causes of sinusitis are allergies or a cold; in fact, around 80 percent of those with a cold also develop sinus trouble, although usually mild. Colds and flu can cause the nasal passages to become congested, causing an obstruction and making it easier for bacteria to grow, which leads to sinusitis.

Allergies and asthma can also lead to sinusitis, again because both of these conditions tend to block the nasal passage. The most common allergens are airborne particles such as dust, animals and food; it's no coincidence that poor air quality also helps to affect the ability of the sinus to operate efficiently. Although fairly rare, an allergic reaction to various types of fungi can also trigger chronic sinusitis.

Abnormalities in a person's nasal passage can also cause a blockage, increasing the possibility of sinusitis. Polyps, which themselves may be the result of previous sinus trouble, are small growths which form in the nasal passage and restrict the flow of air. Although polyps are harmless and non-cancerous, they generally need to be surgically removed.

Sinusitis can also be caused by having enlarged adenoids, a tumor or cleft palate, or a relatively common condition called a deviated septum, in which the middle section of the nose is moved to one side. Even the side effects of certain medications and blowing the nose too hard can cause sinusitis. Stress is something most of us are only too aware of, and studies show that stress can actually lead to excess mucus production, causing the onset of sinus problems.

Of course, it's impossible not to catch a cold or flu occasionally, the main causes of sinusitis. Thorough treatment of a cold, however, will go a long way towards minimizing the symptoms and effects of sinusitis.

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