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Atmospheric
Pressure
Changes in atmospheric pressure, such as while flying, climbing
to high altitudes, or swimming, can cause sinus blockage and
therefore there is an increased chance of developing sinusitis.
Swimming increases the risk for sinusitis for other reasons
like direct exposure to infection.
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Air Pollutants
Air pollution from industrial chemicals, cigarette smoke, or
other pollutants can damage the cilia responsible for moving
mucus through the sinuses. Air pollution is an important cause
of sinusitis and many of the pollutants are critical factors
contributing to the aggravation of the problem.
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Cigarette Smoke
Cigarette smoke, for example, poses a small but increased risk
for sinusitis in adults. Second-hand smoke does not appear to
have any significant effect on adult sinuses, although it does
seem to pose a risk for sinusitis in children.
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Hospitalization
Hospitalized patients are exposed to a number risks of infection
through both utilities and equipment. They are at higher risk
for sinusitis, particularly the following:
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Patients with
conditions requiring insertion of tubes through the nose.
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People whose
breathing is aided by mechanical ventilators may have a
significantly higher risk for maxillary sinusitis. In fact,
treating sinusitis in such patients may significantly reduce
the risk for ventilator-associated pneumonia.
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