How to Determine Causes of Sinus Infections

A sinus infection is an infection in the upper respiratory tract and can be triggered by a number of things. It is also called sinusitis. It is when germs get into the sinuses and causes inflammation.There are several symptoms to determine if someone has a sinus infection. Tenderness or pressure around the nose, eyes, cheeks and forehead usually indicates a sinus infection. Headaches can also accompany the symptoms, furthering the discomfort brought on by one of these infections.

Instructions

• 1

  Determine if you have a cold. A cold is the most common cause of a sinus infection.

• 2

  Check to see if there is any allergens or pollutants anywhere you visit routinely; like work or home. These can trigger acute sinusitis.

• 3

  Get checked for any bacterial in your body that could lead to a sinus infection. Bacterias such as Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, Moraxella catarrhalis and Staphylococcus aureus can be the cause of a sinus infection.

• 4

  Get tested for any disease that weakens the immune system; such as AIDS, diabetes and leukemia. Fungi in people with these types of diseases can cause sinus infections.

• 5

  Decide if you like to scuba dive or fly frequently. The pressure changes that are associated with these types of activities can bring on sinus infections.

• 6

  Determine if you are pregnant or taking birth control pills. Women who are pregnant or taking birth control pills can experience sinus infections because of the change in hormons.

• 7

  Get checked for asthma. Asthma sufferers are also at a risk for having frequent sinus infections.