According to the Mayo Clinic, sinus infections occur when the sinus cavity becomes inflamed and swollen due to irritation. The irritation usually results from allergies, the common cold, nasal polyps or a deviated septum. Sinus infections are categorized into three types of infection: viral, bacterial or fungal. The most common sinus infection is the result of a virus (the common cold), followed by a bacterial infection, while a fungal infection proves rare and uncommon. Knowing the cause of the sinusitis will help you treat the systems appropriately.
Allergies
Allergies commonly cause sinus infections because a common reaction of allergies is nasal congestion, according to the National Library of Medicine. When the body has an allergic reaction to a particular substance such as pollen or pet dander, it releases histamine and antibodies to fight off the suspected foreign substance. The high levels of histamine can cause severe nasal congestion, leading to a sinus infection. Take a 24-hour, over-the-counter (OTC), antihistamine such as loratadine (Claritin) during high-season for allergies to prevent the possibility of developing sinusitis.
Common Cold (Virus)
The common cold results after catching one of over 200 various viruses, states the Mayo Clinic. The symptoms of the common cold vary from person to person but commonly most suffer from upper-respiratory congestion in the chest, ears and sinus cavities. Though no cure for the common cold exists, you can treat the symptoms until the virus is removed from the body. Take an OTC decongestant such as pseudoephedrine (Sudafed), an anti-inflammatory pain reliever (aspirin or ibuprofen) and an antihistamine to help treat the symptoms of the common cold. Talk to your doctor before taking any medication.
Nasal Polyps
Nasal polyps are small, tear-like, shaped growths throughout the nasal cavity. Nasal polyps can developed in anyone but prove more common for adults who suffer from severe allergies or asthma. As the nasal polyps develop and grow, they can cut off airflow through the nose and restrict proper drainage, which commonly leads to sinusitis. Medication can help reduce or eliminate some nasal polyps while others need surgery to effectively remove the growths.
Deviated Septum
A deviated septum is a condition where the middle wall, separating the nose becomes crooked. This typically results because of a birth defect or a facial injury. Like nasal polyps, this condition restricts airflow and drainage, leading to reoccurring sinus infections. Corrective surgery remains the best treatment to correct a deviated septum.
