Sinusitis risk factors: who is more likely to get a sinus infection

What sinusitis is

Sinusitis means your sinuses are inflamed. The cause can be an infection or another problem. The sinuses make mucus that drains into the nose, and if the nose is swollen, the sinuses can be blocked and cause pain (MedlinePlus). CDC explains that a sinus infection happens when fluid builds up in these air-filled pockets in the face, which lets germs grow (CDC).

Acute and chronic sinusitis are different

MedlinePlus lists several types, by how long they last (MedlinePlus):

• Acute: lasts up to 4 weeks;
• Subacute: lasts 4 to 12 weeks;
• Chronic: lasts more than 12 weeks and can continue for months or even years;
• Recurrent: several attacks within a year.

Acute sinusitis often starts as a cold, which then turns into a bacterial infection. Allergies, nasal problems and certain diseases can also cause both acute and chronic sinusitis (MedlinePlus).

Who is more likely to get a sinus infection

CDC lists these risk factors (CDC):

• a previous cold;
• seasonal allergies;
• smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke;
• structural problems within the sinuses, for example growths on the lining of the nose or sinuses, known as nasal polyps;
• a weak immune system, or taking drugs that weaken the immune system.

Causes

Viruses cause most sinus infections, but bacteria can cause some (CDC). Seasonal allergies and colds can cause symptoms similar to a sinus infection (CDC).

Symptoms

CDC lists runny nose, stuffy nose, facial pain or pressure, headache, mucus dripping down the throat (post-nasal drip), sore throat, cough and bad breath (CDC). MedlinePlus adds that symptoms can include fever, weakness and fatigue (MedlinePlus).

Diagnosis and treatment

A provider diagnoses sinusitis from your symptoms and an examination of your nose and face; you may also need imaging tests (MedlinePlus).

CDC says you do not need antibiotics for many sinus infections, and most get better on their own. When antibiotics are not needed they won't help, and their side effects can still cause harm, including severe allergic reactions, antimicrobial-resistant infections and C. diff infection. In some cases you may need antibiotics; your provider may suggest watchful waiting or delayed prescribing for 2 to 3 days (CDC).

To feel better, CDC suggests a warm compress over the nose and forehead, a decongestant or saline nasal spray, breathing in steam, and asking your provider about over-the-counter medicines (CDC). For children, CDC says never to give aspirin because it can cause Reye's syndrome, and not to use over-the-counter cough and cold medicines in children younger than 4 unless a provider specifically says so (CDC).

Lowering the chance of a sinus infection

CDC lists these steps (CDC):

• clean your hands;
• get recommended vaccines, such as the flu vaccine and pneumococcal vaccine;
• avoid close contact with people who have colds or other upper respiratory infections;
• don't smoke, and avoid secondhand smoke (see our quit smoking help check);
• use a clean humidifier to moisten the air at home.

Common questions

Do I need antibiotics for a sinus infection?

Often not. CDC says you do not need antibiotics for many sinus infections and most get better on their own, but in some cases you may need them; your provider decides (CDC).

When does sinusitis count as chronic?

When it lasts more than 12 weeks. It can continue for months or even years (MedlinePlus).

Can allergies cause sinusitis?

Yes. CDC lists seasonal allergies as a risk factor (CDC), and MedlinePlus says allergies, nasal problems and certain diseases can cause acute and chronic sinusitis (MedlinePlus).