Why You Keep Getting Sinusitis

If you’re struggling with sinusitis, you know how much of an annoyance it can be in your daily life. From a stuffy nose to facial pressure and constant headaches, it can feel like this condition keeps coming back no matter what you do. 

Board-certified otolaryngologist and skilled surgeon, Matthew W. Shawl, MD, and our dedicated team, nestled in the heart of New York City's Union Square neighborhood, specializes in the management of sinusitis and can develop a treatment plan to alleviate your symptoms. 

In the meantime, we’ll help you understand the reasons behind this frustrating cycle and what you can do about it. 

The culprits behind recurrent sinusitis 

Are you dying to know why sinusitis feels like a never-ending cycle? Consider the following:

Allergies 

Unfortunately, allergies and sinusitis often go hand-in-hand. When you’re allergic to pollen, dust, pet dander, or other triggers, your nasal passages can become inflamed and produce excess mucus, leading to sinusitis. Seasonal changes and exposure to allergens can trigger flare-ups, too.

Anatomical anomalies 

Sometimes, it’s not just allergies causing chaos in your sinuses. Anatomical abnormalities like a deviated septum or nasal polyps can create a perfect environment for sinusitis to thrive. These structural issues can obstruct your nasal passages, impeding proper drainage and ventilation and making you more susceptible to recurrent sinus infections. 

Chronic conditions 

If you have conditions like asthma, cystic fibrosis, or immune system disorders, you might have a greater risk of sinusitis. These underlying health issues can weaken your body’s defenses against infections, making it easier for bacteria or viruses to set up camp in your sinuses.

Environmental factors

Additionally, your surroundings play a major role in your sinus health. Factors like air pollution, cigarette smoke, and dry indoor air can irritate your nasal passages and increase your risk of sinusitis. Also, frequent exposure to cold or dry weather can dry out your nasal membranes, which makes them more susceptible to inflammation and infection. 

Tips for managing recurrent sinusitis 

Now that you understand why sinusitis keeps making a comeback, here are some strategies to help you break free from the cycle: 

Manage your allergies 

Identify and avoid your allergy triggers as much as possible. Try using air purifiers, allergen-proof bedding, and nasal saline rinses to minimize allergen exposure. 

Control chronic conditions 

Work closely with Dr. Shawl to manage underlying conditions like asthma or immune disorders effectively. Follow your treatment plan to keep your symptoms under control and reduce the frequency of your sinusitis flare-ups. 

Create a sinus-friendly environment 

Keep indoor air moist with a humidifier to prevent nasal dryness. Avoid exposure to environmental irritants like smoke and strong chemicals. Practice good sinus hygiene by staying hydrated and practicing regular nasal irrigation with saline solutions. 

Take charge of your sinus health

It’s important to remember that although recurrent sinusitis can feel like an endless cycle of congestion and discomfort, you can find a way out of this cycle by understanding the causes and collaborating with our team to find effective solutions. 

If you’re ready to take charge of your sinus health, contact the office of Matthew W. Shawl, MD to book a consultation today or schedule your appointment online!