What is sinusitis and what causes it?
What is sinusitis? Sinusitis is defined as inflammation of the sinuses. The sinuses are chambers that communicate with the nasal cavity through tiny openings (See “What are sinuses?”). They become inflamed due to a variety of causes but typical sinusitis is due to a bacterial infection. Often the problem in the sinuses occurs in association with a condition that affects the nasal cavity, such as allergies, a viral infection, or irritation. Because the nasal cavity and the sinuses typically react in conjunction with one another, some experts have suggested that the term “sinusitis” be replaced with “rhinosinusitis” (rhino = nose) to emphasize this association. Sinusitis is a common condition that affects millions of people across the world. It has been estimated that as many as 35 million Americans suffer from this disease at that it accounts for at least $2.4 billion in direct medical costs alone. This figure does not take into account the economic impact of lost productivity, work day
Sinusitis literally means “inflammation of the sinus cavities.” This inflammation is what happens when your nose and sinuses are exposed to anything that might irritate the membranous linings. These irritants may include dust and pollution, cigarette smoke, and other irritants. Allergic reaction to mold, pollen and so forth may also irritate the nasal linings. Furthermore, infection with a virus or bacteria may irritate the nasal linings. All of these factors may cause the narrow openings in the nose and sinus cavities to narrow even further or even to shut entirely.
