Risk Factors for Sinusitis

Smoking

Smoking cigarettes or cigars and regular exposure to second-hand smoke increase your risk of developing sinusitis.

Certain Medical Conditions

The following medical conditions increase your chances of getting sinusitis:

• A recent cold
• Medication, such as prolonged use of decongestant sprays
• Nasal obstruction due to:
  
  • Polyps
  • Deviated septum
  • Facial bone abnormalities
  • Swollen adenoids
  • Cleft palate
  • Tumor
• Allergies
• Certain chronic illnesses, including:
  
  • Cystic fibrosis
  • Kartagener’s syndrome (a disorder of the cilia throughout the body)
  • Wegener's granulomatosis
  • AIDS
  • Diabetes
  • Immobile cila syndrome
• Head injury or a medical condition requiring a tube inserted in the nose

Age

In general, elderly people and young people have a higher risk of developing respiratory tract infections, including sinusitis.

Gender

Women have a greater chance of developing sinusitis than men.

Ethnic Background

Whites and blacks have a higher risk of developing sinusitis than do Hispanics.

Environmental Factors

• Traveling to high altitudes
• Air pollution
• Living in the Midwest or southern United States

Activities

Flying and swimming both increase your chance of getting sinusitis.