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Prevention Tips: |
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Wash your hands
Limit exposure to infected people
Get plenty of rest
Eat a healthy diet
Reduce stress
Be social
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Causes
Colds and flu are caused by viral infections. Bacterial sinusitis is caused by certain bacteria usually after 7 to 10 days of symptoms.
Bacterial sinusitis almost always starts with allergies or after an infection, such as a cold. Inflammation of the sinuses during a cold or with allergies might explain why these conditions may increase your chances for sinusitis. Your nose reacts to viruses by producing mucus and sending white blood cells to the lining of the nose, which congest and swell nasal passages.
When the mucous membranes of your sinuses swell up, air and mucus are trapped behind the narrowed openings of the sinuses. When your sinus openings become too narrow, mucus can't drain properly. This increase in mucus sets up the perfect stage for bacterial infection.
More on Cold, Flu and Sinus Colds and Flu
In the Encyclopedia: Acetaminophen
Cough suppressants
Cough
Croup
Decongestants
This article was reviewed and updated June 2007.
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