The Different Types of Sinuses That You Need to Know About

If you suffer from constant congestion and pressure, you may have a sinus infection. This issue can cause a variety of health complications, and the symptoms often last for weeks or even months.

Many people do not realize that there are different types of sinuses. Knowing specific information about your case helps you speak with your doctor about the best way to treat them.

So, what are the different types of sinuses that you must know about? Check out this simple guide to learn about all the different types of sinuses there are and what symptoms they can cause.

Keep reading!

Frontal Sinus

The frontal sinus is located on the forehead around the bone behind the eyebrows. This is the largest of all the sinuses and it drains into the nose through a small opening. It works by helping filter and clean the air that we breathe.

The frontal sinuses are the most likely to become infected due to their location and the fact that they are the largest. Infections of the frontal sinuses can cause pain and pressure in the forehead, as well as headaches, fever, and nosebleeds.

Ethmoid Sinus

The ethmoid sinus is a honeycomb-like structure that sits between your eyes under the bone of each eye’s inside corner. Its function is to help humidify the air we breathe.

Ethmoid sinus infections are usually less severe but can still cause pain and pressure in the eyes and forehead, as well as congestion and a runny nose.

These are usually harmless unless they escalate into chronic sinusitis, which typically affects the ethmoid and maxillary sinuses.

Maxillary Sinus

The maxillary sinus is located below the eyes and is the second smallest of the four sinuses. They work by helping to warm the air that we breathe.

This is one of the most commonly infected types of sinuses, leading to pain and pressure in the cheeks, as well as a stuffy nose, congestion, and a fever.

Sphenoid Sinus

The sphenoid sinus is located behind the ethmoid sinus and is the second largest of the four sinuses. The sphenoid sinus helps to balance the pressure in the head.

Sphenoid sinus infections are the least common but can be very painful, causing headaches, vision problems, and even seizures.

Causes of Sinus Infections

Sinus infections occur when fluid collects in the sinuses, becoming a breeding ground for germs. As a result, you get an inflamed sinus, a condition known as sinusitis.

Sinus infections and sinusitis can be caused by viruses, bacteria, or allergies and are usually harmless with proper treatment. This includes avoiding certain foods that tend to aggravate the symptoms.

Learn the Different Types of Sinuses Today

While there are four different types of sinuses, the reasons behind infections are usually the same, and so are the methods of treating sinuses.

By simply cleaning your hands, getting recommended vaccines, avoiding contact with people with colds and other upper respiratory infections, and boosting your immune system, your sinuses should be in great shape and help you achieve overall health and well-being.

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