Sinusitis can occur due to changes in temperature or air pressure, or anything causing sinus or hindering mucus clearance. Contributing factors can include:
- Allergies
- Excessive use of decongestant nasal sprays
- Smoking
- Swimming or diving
- Nasal polyps (growths that block sinus passages)
When triggered by bacterial or viral infections, sinusitis turns into a sinus infection. Such infections may develop following a cold, where the virus attacks the sinus lining, causing swelling and narrowing. The body's response to produce more mucus, combined with the restricted drainage, creates an environment conducive to bacteria growth, potentially resulting in a sinus infection.