We all know that poor air quality is bad for the environment and bad for our health. In recent years, research has found a link between exposure to poor air quality and an increased risk of chronic sinusitis.
What is Chronic Sinusitis?
Chronic sinusitis or rhinosinusitis (CRS) is a sinus infection that lasts 12 weeks or longer. A sinus infection occurs when fluid builds up in the sinus cavities, which causes them to become inflamed and infected. Symptoms commonly include:
- Facial pain and pressure
- Severe nasal congestion
- Postnasal drip
- Thick, green or yellow nasal discharge
- Headache
- Loss of smell
Having chronic sinusitis can impact things like your quality of sleep and may be associated with higher levels of anxiety and depression and overall reduced quality of life.
Research on Chronic Rhinosinusitis and Air Pollution
A 2021 study looked at 6,102 individuals 18 and older to examine how long-term exposure to particulate matter (PM) air pollution, also known as PM2.5, affected the risk of chronic rhinosinusitis.
PM2.5 consists of inhalable particulate matter that’s less than 2.5 micrometers in size. It can include dust, dirt, smoke, organic compounds and metals.
Researchers found that “CRS was more likely to be diagnosed in patients exposed to higher concentrations of PM2.5 across all windows of exposure.”
Minimizing Your Exposure to Air Pollution
Air pollution is a global problem that requires global solutions. However, there are steps you can take to reduce your exposure to air pollution.
- Check daily air pollution forecasts in your area
- Avoid going on walks or runs outside at places like Broad River Trail when air pollution is high, and workout indoors on those days instead
- Always avoid exercising in high-traffic areas
- Don’t be around indoor cigarette smoke or allow people to smoke in your home
How To Treat Sinusitis
There are several treatment options for sinusitis, and what works for you will depend on factors like cause, the severity of your symptoms and your overall health, among other factors. Options include:
- Getting plenty of rest and staying hydrated
- Nasal saline rinses
- Over-the-counter decongestants and allergy medications
If you have chronic or more severe symptoms, make an appointment with a medical provider. You may need prescription-strength treatments or antibiotics if your infection is bacterial.
Additionally, if you have structural issues like nasal polyps or a deviated septum, sinus surgery may be recommended to help prevent frequent infections.
For more information or to schedule an appointment with one of our specialists, call Palmetto ENT & Allergy today.