Causes of Sinus Infection
Acute sinusitis is usually caused by the common cold, which is a viral infection. It can also result from an upper respiratory tract infection that leads to congestion of the sinuses and nasal passages. Allergies could also cause acute sinusitis, for example, hay fever. Occasionally, a bacterial infection may develop alongside acute sinusitis. [4]
Chronic sinusitis, on the other hand, can be caused by a wide variety of factors. These include;
— A shifted nasal septum (the separating wall between the nostrils). When the septum deviates to one side, it may block the passages for fluid in the sinuses. This could be a serious cause of prolonged symptoms.
— Upper respiratory tract infections. This can lead to inflammation of one or more sinuses, thereby blocking the passages.
— Nasal polyps (small tissue growths in the nose) can block sinuses and nasal passages.
— Complications of some medical conditions affecting the immune system, such as cystic fibrosis, flu, or HIV.
— Allergies. For example, hay fever can lead to blockage of sinuses or nasal passages. [5]
