Sinus

The information and recommendations provided herein are general in nature. All decisions regarding an individual's healthcare are the sole responsibility of the patient and the patient's healthcare provider.

What is the function of the nose?

The nose serves as a passageway for air going to and coming from the lungs. As air is inhaled (breathed in), the mucus membranes that line the nasal passages rapidly warm and humidify it. These membranes also secrete mucus that traps debris and bacteria that could irritate the delicate linings of the respiratory (air ways) tract.

What are the sinuses? (Paranasal sinuses)

The sinuses are hollow cavities within the bones of the skull, around and behind the nose. The sinuses are lined with mucus membranes that produce mucus, which drains through openings in the nasal cavity. The mucus helps to trap foreign particles and moisten air breathed in through the nose. There are four sinus cavities: the frontal sinus, the ethmoid sinus, the sphenoid sinus and the maxillary sinus.

What causes congestion?

Congestion is caused by excessive fluid in the nasal and sinus cavities, resulting from the increase in mucus secretions, along with increased fluids passing across the blood vessels of the mucus membranes, which line the nose and sinuses.