Sinus infections are very common. In fact, doctors say that almost 1 out of every 8 adults in India get a sinus infection each year. Many people think they know the reason why. They blame a cold, the weather or too much dust. But sometimes the real problem is hidden. There are many sinus infection causes that most people do not even think about.
This blog is here to help you find out what these hidden sinus infection causes are. Once you know you can try to avoid them. You can also get the right help if you keep having a blocked nose, pain in your face or headaches.
What Are Sinuses?
Let us start with the basics. Sinuses are small empty spaces inside your skull. They are found behind your forehead, nose, cheeks and eyes.
When you breathe, air goes in and out of these spaces. If your sinuses are healthy you may not even notice them. But if something blocks them you may feel sick.
The germs can grow inside and give you pain or fever. This is called a sinus infection. There are many sinus infection causes that can start this problem.
Common Sinus Infection Causes
Everyone knows some of the simple sinus infection causes. Dust, cold and pollution are at the top of the list. But there is more to the story. Sometimes, the real sinus infection causes are things you see every day but never worry about.
Let us look at some of these surprising sinus infection causes. You may find that your own daily routine is not as safe as you thought.
#1. Strong Smells and Perfumes
You may love the smell of your favourite perfume or a fresh air spray. But did you know strong smells are also sinus infection causes?
The chemicals in air fresheners, cleaning sprays or perfumes can hurt the inside of your nose. Your nose becomes red and swollen. This makes it easy for germs to get in. If you get a blocked nose after using these products, this could be the reason.
#2. Swimming and Water Activities
A swim in the pool is fun. It feels great on a hot day. But swimming pools have chemicals like chlorine. Chlorine can enter your nose and make the inside of your nose sore. Water that is not clean can also carry germs. These are hidden sinus infection causes that many people never think about. Even getting water up your nose in the shower can sometimes cause trouble.
#3. Allergies Hiding in Your Home
You may not see them but allergies can live in your home. Dust mites, mold and pet hair are all sinus infection causes. When you breathe them in your body tries to fight them off. Your nose swells up and makes more mucus.
The sinuses get blocked. Germs stay trapped inside and cause infection. Cleaning your house often, changing your bed sheets and keeping pets off your pillow can help.
#4. Bad Habits and Ignoring Small Problems
Sometimes you may cause problems for yourself without knowing. For example, blowing your nose very hard when you have a cold can push germs deeper inside.
Smoking is another big reason. Even if you do not smoke, being near someone who does can dry your nose. A dry nose cannot clean itself well. This is one of the most common sinus infection causes.
Many people use nasal sprays for relief. But using them too often can make your nose even more blocked.
Your body can get used to the spray and it stops working. This is another sneaky sinus infection cause.
#5. Problems With Teeth
Your teeth and sinuses are close neighbours. If you have a tooth infection, it can spread to your sinuses. A bad tooth in your upper jaw can be one of the hidden sinus infection causes. If you have both a toothache and a blocked nose you should talk to a doctor. Fixing your teeth can sometimes fix your sinus problems too.
#6. Weather, Air Conditioners and Dry Air
Weather changes can play tricks on your nose. Many people think only cold weather can cause sinus infections. But dry air from heaters or air conditioners is also one of the sinus infection causes. A dry nose cannot wash away germs. Your nose gets blocked and you feel sick.
Sudden changes in temperature, like coming inside after being out in the sun, can shock your nose. Try to keep your room at a steady temperature if you have sinus trouble.
#7. Food and Water Choices
Some foods can make mucus thicker in your nose. Dairy products like milk and cheese are sometimes sinus infection causes for people who are sensitive. Spicy foods can clear your nose for a short time but sometimes they also make your nose red and sore. Not drinking enough water makes it hard for your nose to clean itself. Always keep a bottle of water with you.
#8. Sleep Habits and Bedroom Choices
If you wake up every morning with a blocked nose, look at your pillow and bed. Old pillows and mattresses are full of dust and tiny bugs. These can be sinus infection causes. Wash your bed sheets often and change your pillows every few years. Try sleeping with your head a little higher. This helps your nose drain better at night.
Conclusion
Sinus infection causes are not always easy to find. Many of them are hiding in your daily life. It is not just dust or a cold. It can be your perfume your pool time your pets your pillow or even the air in your room. If you have tried everything and still have sinus trouble, it may be time to get help.
If you want answers from a trusted expert you can visit a General Physician in Gurgaon. Aryan Hospital doctors help you find your hidden sinus infection causes and show you how to feel better. Do not let these secret problems bother you. Take small steps today and breathe easier tomorrow.