In a fit over sinus infections? It might sound cliché, but the first step to getting well is getting to the root of the problem.
If you’re plagued with sinus infections, also know as sinusitis, then you’re probably familiar with the symptoms:
- Coughing
- Congestion
- Mucous discharge
- Stuffiness
- Trouble smelling
- Pain or pressure in the face
- General fatigue
- Bad breath
- Tooth pain (some irritated sinuses can put pressure on your upper teeth)
But why are you getting those sinus infections in the first place? It’s always best to check with your doctor — who might refer you to an ear, nose and throat specialist — but here are some common underlying causes.
- Mold.
Surprised? The Mayo Clinic has found that breathing in fungus and mold is actually a big culprit for sinus infections.
- Allergies.
Whether allergies are seasonal or ongoing, they can be linked with sinusitis. What’s more, the symptoms of an allergy attack can actually mimic a sinus infection, so it’s important to ask a sinus specialist what’s going on.
- Acid reflux.
For some people, stomach acid escapes into the throat and nose, even without typical heartburn or indigestion symptoms. This can lead to sinus infections with a heavy postnasal drip, or even a choking sensation. Certain foods (fatty, spicy, fried…) can make acid reflux worse.
- Smoking.
Cigarette smoke irritates the nasal passes and sinuses. It also can cause the body to make more stomach acid…which might lead to acid reflux again.
If you can’t kick the sinus infections, it’s best to consult a doctor, who can do look into your medical history, ask more questions and recommend special tests, if needed.
Sometimes, patients even have multiple underlying causes of sinus infections. So it’s not easy — and not recommended — to self-diagnose without a doctor’s help.
We have a group of seasoned professionals that will be happy to help you find answers. Tired of suffering through sinusitis? Please contact us.
Frequently Asked Questions
Sinus infections, or sinusitis, often present symptoms including coughing, congestion, mucous discharge, stuffiness, trouble smelling, facial pain or pressure, general fatigue, bad breath, and sometimes tooth pain due to sinus pressure on upper teeth.
Sinus infections can be caused by various underlying factors such as exposure to mold and fungus, allergies (seasonal or ongoing), acid reflux that affects the throat and nasal passages, and smoking which irritates the sinuses and can increase stomach acid production.
Breathing in mold and fungus can irritate the nasal passages and sinuses, causing inflammation and making the sinuses more susceptible to infections, as noted by research from the Mayo Clinic.
Yes, acid reflux can cause stomach acid to escape into the throat and nasal passages, sometimes without classic heartburn. This can lead to sinus infections characterized by heavy postnasal drip or a choking sensation, worsened by certain foods like fatty, spicy, or fried items.
Self-diagnosing sinus infections is not recommended as symptoms can overlap with allergies or other conditions. A doctor can review your medical history, perform necessary tests, and identify possibly multiple underlying causes to tailor an effective treatment plan.
Smoking irritates the nasal passages and sinuses, worsening inflammation and congestion. It can also increase stomach acid production, which may lead to acid reflux that further aggravates sinus infections.
Yes, allergy symptoms such as nasal congestion, mucous discharge, and facial pressure can closely resemble sinus infection symptoms, making it important to consult a sinus specialist for proper diagnosis and treatment.