Located in the bones of the face, there are 4 pairs of sinuses:
Maxillary Sinuses: Located at the cheekbones
Frontal Sinuses: Located at the centre of the forehead
Ethmoid Sinuses: Between the eyes at the nasal bridge
Sphenoid Sinuses: Located in the bones behind the nasal cavity
The sinuses are air-filled pockets lined with a thin layer of mucus that traps germs, dust and bacteria in the air. It serves a protective function and humidifies and filters air that passes through to the lungs. The sinuses also give our voice a resonant quality to it.
To allow the sinuses to function properly, tiny hair-like projections in the mucus help sweep the mucus (and its trapped contents) toward the back of the throat, where the mucus is drained away and swallowed. This is a continuous and normal process.
A sinus infection occurs when the lining of the nasal passages become inflamed and blocks the drainage of mucus; along with a range of accompanying symptoms:
- Facial Pain or Pressure
- Nasal Congestion
- Runny Nose
- Thick Nasal Discharge (Green or Yellow)
- Post-Nasal Drip
- Decreased Sense of Smell & Taste
- Cough and Sore Throat
- Fatigue and Headache
- Bad Breath
- Acute Sinusitis:
This refers to a classic sinus infection caused by bacteria, viruses or fungi affecting the sinuses. This typically lasts no more than 8 weeks and can usually be easily treated.
- Chronic Sinusitis:
This occurs when the sinuses are persistently swollen and inflamed for longer than 12 weeks, despite treatment. One may have several episodes of acute sinusitis before developing chronic sinusitis. Chronic sinusitis tends to be harder to treat, due to higher and prolonged levels of inflammation. If not consistently treated, complications may arise.
There are several factors that may block the proper drainage of mucus and result in a sinus infection. They include:
- Infection:
The most common cause is a viral infection; though bacterial and fungal infections can also result in sinusitis.
- Allergies:
Irritation in the nasal canal by things like pollen and dust can lead to swelling and inflammation.
- Nasal Blockage:
An abnormal growth/anatomy (such as a nasal polyp or deviated septum) within the nasal cavity may result in the obstruction of the sinus drainage process.
- Infected or Enlarged Adenoids:
Adenoids are the lymph nodes located in the throat, behind the nasal cavity. When enlarged or inflamed, they can interfere with the sinus drainage process.
Dr Lau is an experienced ENT Specialist with a special interest in the diagnosis and treatment of sinus and nasal disorders, such as sinusitis, rhinitis and deviated septum.
Dr Lau formerly practiced at renowned hospitals in the United Kingdom and Singapore General Hospital; and has served on the panels of various embassies, legal bodies, associations and societies.
