LAX Leader

• Approximately 10 million Americans experience seasonal depression, also known as seasonal affective disorder, each year.

• Chronic sinus problems can also increase the likelihood of experiencing depression.

• Depression caused by chronic sinusitis can be treated by addressing the sinus problems.   

Winter means fewer daylight hours and more people experiencing recurring sinus problems, both factors that health experts believe increase the risk of depression. 

According to Boston University, every year, about 10 million Americans experience symptoms of seasonal affective disorder (SAD), such as sadness, sluggishness and weight changes. Dr. Matt Hershcovitch, a doctor with SoCal Breathe Free Sinus & Allergy Centers, says chronic sinus issues can also add to the risk of depression.

"There's a very significant correlation unfortunately," Hershcovitch told LAX Leader. "Those who have developed chronic sinusitis are much more likely to develop depression and anxiety. This is because it is like a weight on top of you 24-7."

Studies have revealed that people who have chronic sinusitis could be more likely to suffer from depression and anxiety, Physician's Weekly reported. One study comparing to people with and without sinus problems found those who have sinus issues are 50% more likely to develop either depression or anxiety. 

A report from Houston Advanced Nose and Sinus found that as many as 25% of people who have chronic sinusitis also experience depression, along with more familiar sinus infection symptoms such as headaches, facial pain, a cough and nasal discharge. Depression caused by chronic sinusitis can be treated by addressing the sinus infection through medication or a surgery like balloon sinuplasty.

If you're interested in learning more about sinus or allergy symptoms, please take this Sinus Self-Assessment Quiz.