Risk Factors for Sinusitis

A risk factor is something that increases your likelihood of getting a disease or condition.

It is possible to develop sinusitis with or without the risk factors listed below. However, the more risk factors you have, the greater your likelihood of developing sinusitis. If you have a number of risk factors, ask your doctor what you can do to reduce your risk.

Risk factors for sinusitis include the following:

Smoking

Smoking and being exposed to second-hand smoke increases 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 diving both increase your chance of getting sinusitis.

References

Rakel RE, Bope ET. Conn’s Current Therapy. 54th ed. Philadelphia, PA: WB Saunders Company; 2002.

Sinus infection (sinusitis). National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases website. Available at: http://www3.niaid.nih.gov/topics/sinusitis/ . Accessed September 12, 2008.

Revision Information

Reviewer: Brian Randall, MD
Review Date: 10/2012
Update Date: 10/11/2012

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.