A sinus infection can be influenced by many factors, such as diet, digestion, toxin accumulation, stress, exercise levels and daily routine or lifestyle. Pregnancy, working with children, and smoking are some of the lifestyle choices that increase one's susceptibility to sinusitis. What are Lifestyle-related Risks for Sinusitis? A risk for acute bacterial sinus infection is diving or swimming in polluted water. Even chlorinated water can increase risk since it reduces the beating of the microscopic cilia that line the nose and sinuses and facilitate mucus drainage. Adults who live or work with young children are susceptible to repeated episodes of a cold and bacterial sinus infection. Because young children are more likely to carry bacteria that have developed resistance to antibiotics, adults who catch an infection from a young child may not respond to first-line antibiotics like erythromycin, sulfa drugs, and amoxicillin. A culture grown in a laboratory can guide the selection of the right antibiotic treatment. During pregnancy, many women experience rhinitis of pregnancy, an inflammation of the nasal lining that blocks mucus drainage. This condition is due to natural hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy. Women who take birth control pills may experience similar nasal symptoms. The nasal congestion associated with rhinitis of pregnancy can be mistaken for a sinus infection. However, there is no evidence that pregnant women are more likely to contract sinusitis. When they do, treatment can be problematic because of the pregnancy. In some cases, a saltwater nasal spray or nonprescription decongestant spray can safely open nasal passages. If an infection develops, an antibiotic may be necessary. Cigarette smoke slows down the sweeping action of the cilia (microscopic hairs in the nasal and sinus linings). The thin mucus blanket that covers the nose and sinus lining thickens, and postnasal drainage can become quite thick and noticeable. Smokers are less likely than non-smokers to have the same degree of improvement after sinus surgery. Exposure to secondhand smoke can cause similar problems with sinus infection. Continuous stress can affect your immune and neurological system. Stress can lead to habits like blowing the nose forcefully and rubbing it frequently. These habits may irritate the nose, causing inflammation and even bleeding. When the immune system is affected negatively, the body becomes susceptible to a sinus infection from bacteria and virus. It is a fact that stress affects our health and it is very important to be aware of the problems that can be caused by stress. Avoiding stress can be very simple and if you are not able to prevent it, then there are numerous ways by which you can get help to keep the symptoms from escalating to serious complications. For more information, visit http://sinusinfectionproblems.com/
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