4 Common Sinus Conditions

4 Common Sinus Conditions: Causes

Now that you've identified the symptoms of four common sinus conditions, here's a look at some of the most likely causes behind them:

1. Nasal Allergies: Sometimes, your immune system gets confused and tries to protect you against something that's not really harmful, like pollen or pet dander. Part of this protective response involves pumping out histamine -- a body chemical that triggers sneezing, a runny nose, and other allergy symptoms. So if you suffer from nasal allergies, one of your best bets for reducing symptoms is to avoid your allergy triggers. Learn more about common allergens like pollen, dust mites, mold, and animal dander.

2. Vasomotor Rhinitis: Although it's not an allergic response, vasomotor rhinitis is also a kind of overreaction by your body to something fairly benign. The blood vessels in the nose constrict and dilate in response to an irritant -- like smoke, spicy foods, or a sudden change in temperature -- and your nose starts to run as a result. So control your exposure to common nose nuisances and you'll do much to reduce your risk of symptoms. Find out which sinus symptoms are common with this condition -- and which ones aren't.

3. Common Cold: There are over 200 strains of the cold-causing virus, and although you can catch one anytime of the year, colds occur most frequently in the winter. Stepping up your germ-avoidance measures and bolstering your immune system -- especially during critical winter
months -- could help keep you sniffle-free. Herbs? Vitamins? Garlic? Get the lowdown on what works -- and what doesn't -- when it comes to preventing colds and flu.

4. Sinusitis: The sinus inflammation that characterizes sinusitis can be brought on by another nasal problem, such as a cold, nasal polyps, or an infection. So the key here is to not leave sinus problems uninvestigated and untreated. Taking quick action with allergies, colds, infections, or structural problems in the nose is a must. Find out what else your untreated allergies could turn into.