If left untreated, infections occurring in the sinus cavities can affect the chest and lungs.
Untreated allergies are one of the main contributing factors to the development of sinus infections.
Any bacteria that enter the nasal passages and sinus cavities through the air that is inhaled, are trapped by the mucus secreted by the mucous membranes surrounding these areas.
These trapped particles can cause an irritation to these linings resulting in swelling and inflammation.
“Bacteria that normally cause acute sinusitis are Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, and Moraxella catarrhalis (WebMD).
These microorganisms, along with Staphylococcus aureus and some anaerobes (bacteria that live without oxygen), are involved in chronic sinusitis.