How does sinusitis typically develop from a cold?

• A. Inflamed nasal passages can obstruct sinus drainage
• B. Regular hand washing and maintaining hygiene
• C. Increased exposure to allergens and irritants
• D. Overuse of the voice leading to laryngeal inflammation

Answer: (A)

Inflammation from a cold can block the tiny openings that drain the sinuses. When the nasal passages become swollen, these drainage pathways get obstructed, causing mucus to back up in the sinuses. The trapped mucus creates a favorable environment for infection and slows clearance, so bacteria can proliferate and a sinus infection develops on top of the cold.

While good hygiene helps prevent catching colds and irritants or allergies can predispose someone to sinus inflammation, they don’t explain the typical progression from a cold to sinusitis. Overuse of the voice affects the larynx, not the sinus drainage, so it isn’t part of the usual pathway to sinusitis.