Sinusitis, also called a sinus infection, is a condition that occurs when the sinuses become inflamed due to an infection. There are three main types of infectious agents that cause a sinus infection: viruses, bacterium and fungi. Many health conditions can increase the likelihood of developing sinusitis, including allergies, a blockage in the nasal passages, deviated nasal septum, infected teeth and enlarged or infected adenoids, explains the Mayo Clinic. Treatment usually consists of medication to alleviate the symptoms or an antibiotic or antifungal medication when the illness is caused by a bacteria or fungus.
Cilia Malfunction
The small hairs in the nose, called cilia, help move mucus out of the nasal passages. The National Institutes of Health points out that when these small hairs do not work properly, the result is a blockage of mucus. When mucus prevents air flow and drainage bacteria, viruses and fungi are allowed to replicate inside the sinuses. Once the infection occurs, more symptoms will develop, including exacerbated congestion, coughing, nasal drainage, fatigue and sometimes a fever. In addition to treating the infection when possible, the cilia malfunction may be treated. Sometimes the hairs do not function properly due to health conditions, like seasonal allergies or immotile cilia syndrome.
Existing Condition
A sinus infection often occurs because of the mucus production associated with the common cold and allergies. The NIH explains that the extra mucus produced during such existing conditions creates the perfect environment for the growth of infection, including bacterium, viruses and fungi. Other health conditions that can create the same environment include cystic fibrosis and illnesses that weaken the immune system.
Blockage
When a mass of tissue or bone blocks the opening of the sinuses, the result is a buildup of mucus. LIke other sinusitis causes, the buildup of mucus allows infectious agents to proliferate. Examples of such blockages include a deviated nasal septum, nasal bone spur, tumor or a nasal polyp, explains the Mayo Clinic. Surgery can sometimes correct these conditions, but not in all cases.
About this Author
Sarah Irene has written stacks of research articles dating back to 2000, has consulted in a number of settings, and is an able resource for a vast range of topics. She has been a psychology instructor since 2006 and has had her work published by ParentDish. She holds a master’s degree in clinical psychology.
