Chronic sinus disease, also known as chronic sinusitis, can affect many people and disrupt their everyday lives. Unlike an acute sinusitis or sinus infection, which lasts only a couple of weeks, chronic sinusitis occurs for 12 weeks or more in duration, even with treatment. Some of the main symptoms are continued nasal congestion, facial pressure, headaches, and a reduced sense of smell. To treat chronic sinusitis and relieve symptoms over the long term, it is helpful to understand what causes it to occur. In this article, we will discuss in detail the different causes of Chronic sinus problems.
- Allergies
Allergies are one of the most frequent reasons for chronic sinusitis. An allergic reaction to dust, pollen, mold or pet dander causes the nasal membranes to become inflamed and swollen. The continued swelling and inflammation of the nasal membranes block the normal drainage of the sinuses into the nasal passages. This blockage results in a buildup of mucus in the sinuses, which can lead to an infection. Most people with chronic sinusitis who have either untreated or poorly controlled allergies have recurring symptoms of sinusitis all year.
- Nasal Polyps
Nasal polyps are soft, painless, non-malignant tumors of the lining of the nasal passages and/or sinuses. They develop from chronic inflammation of the nasal membranes due to a number of reasons. Nasal polyps obstruct the passage of air through the sinuses into the nasal cavity. They also obstruct the normal drainage of mucus from the sinuses. Individuals with nasal polyps can experience long-term nasal congestion, facial pressure or “fullness”, and Chronic sinusitis. Nasal polyps are frequently present with asthma, allergies, and aspirin sensitivity.
- Deviated Nasal Septum
A deviated septum occurs when the thin wall that divides the nostrils becomes misaligned toward one side. This abnormal formation can limit airflow to one of the two nasal passages and restrict drainage from the sinus cavities on that side. When sinus cavities don’t drain well, they are more likely to become infected. If chronic sinus symptoms were caused by this structural defect before treatment, it is likely that the symptoms will subside significantly once the defect has been corrected.
- Recurrent Infections
Frequent or incomplete treatment of acute sinus infections can advance to chronic sinusitis. Chronic inflammation resulting from unresolved bacterial, viral, or fungal infections may perpetuate the symptoms associated with chronic sinusitis.
- Air Pollution and Smoking
Individuals with a weakened immune system have an inability to mount an effective immune response to fight infection. People with diabetes, HIV, and those taking immunosuppressive medications are at increased risk for the development of chronic sinusitis. Chronic sinusitis can occur as a result of any infection that is inadequately treated; therefore, prolonged and recurrent infections will occur when further compromise of the immune system occurs.
- Weak Immune System
Individuals who experience chronic sinusitis as a result of environmental factors (such as exposure to air pollution, tobacco smoke, or chemical fumes) or other irritants cause damage to the nasal mucosa and lead to chronic inflammation. Prolonged exposure to these substances causes a deterioration of the ability of the sinuses to naturally clear mucus; therefore, there is an increased likelihood of continuing to develop chronic sinus problems.
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