The sinuses are air-filled spaces attached to your nasal cavity. Their soft-tissue walls can easily become inflamed and irritated due to allergens, environmental factors, or the common cold. When the sinuses are irritated, they can swell and overproduce mucus, which restricts airflow and proper drainage, according to the Mayo Clinic. Some of the most common causes of sinus irritation and drainage are allergies, infection and physical complications.
Allergies
When the body does not recognize a particular substance such as pollen, pet dander or dust mites, it produces high levels of histamine to ward off the intruding substance, states the National Library of Medicine. Histamine in the body causes certain physical reactions, such as watery eyes, a runny nose and postnasal drip. Postnasal drip is the drainage of the sinus cavity in the back of the throat. An allergic reaction causes the sinuses to become irritated, which if not properly treated may lead to a sinus infection. Treat allergies by taking over-the-counter (OTC) antihistamines such as loradatine (Claritin). Talk to your doctor before taking any medication.
Sinus Infection
A sinus infection is a major cause of sinus irritation and drainage. A sinus infection occurs when the sinus cavity is irritated by a bacteria, virus or fungus. The most common symptoms of a sinus infection are: thick, yellowish-green discharge, sinus pressure and a low-grade fever. Bacterial sinusitis is treated with prescribed antibiotics; viral sinusitis is treated with OTC decongestants and pain relievers; and a fungal sinus infection commonly needs surgical treatment. If you suspect you have developed a sinus infection, seek medical advice to determine the best treatment for your situation.
Physical Complications
Two common physical complications that cause sinus irritation and drainage are nasal polyps and a deviated septum. Both conditions block the natural airflow of the nasal passages and prevent normal drainage. Nasal polyps can be developed by anyone at any age, but are commonly seen in adults suffering from allergies. Nasal polyps are small growths on the walls of the sinus cavity. Nasal polyps are treated with prescribed drugs or surgery. A deviated septum is a condition where the center wall of the nose is crooked. A deviated septum is the result of improper physical development or is caused by a facial injury. A deviated septum is corrected with surgery.
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