Sinus Cavities Location Anatomy Pictures
Posted by Dr. Chris
The sinus cavities, proper term paranasal sinuses, are hollow air-filled cavities in the skull located around the nasal cavity. These rather unassuming pockets in the skull bone may have several important functions and are also prone to diseases that affect the nasal cavity. All the paranasal sinuses are connected to each other because it communicates with a common cavity the nasal cavity.
Dr Pasha And The Chamber Of Sinuses
Home » Dr. Pasha and the Chamber of Sinuses
The nose is a fascinating part of the anatomy you can breathe with it, smell with it, pick it, pierce it, you name it! But those things only scratch n sniff the surface. Your nose and the sinuses connected to it are more intricate than you probably realize.
So what mysteries fill the hollow spaces that we call sinuses? Your nose knows, and so should you! To shed some light into all the nooks and crannies up there, this post will explain what exactly your sinuses are, why we have them, and how they work.
Sinuses at Face Value
It makes sense to assume that the term sinuses refers to only two sinus cavities, one for each side of your nose. The truth is, you actually have 4 different pairs of sinus cavities in your head. Your 4 normal paired sinus cavities include:
- Maxillary sinuses: The maxillary sinuses are the largest of the 4 pairs. They are located behind cheekbones near the upper jaw.
- Ethmoid sinuses: The ethmoid sinuses are not individual air sacs like the other three. They are a collection of 6-12 smallair cells that open independently into the nasal cavity, and are divided into front, middle, and rear groups.
- Frontal sinuses: These are near the center of the forehead, one cavity above each eye.
- Sphenoid sinuses: Located in the sphenoid bone, near the optic nerve and pituitary gland on the side of the skull.
Youre Such an Airhead:
How Does Apple Cider Vinegar Cure Sinus Infections
ACV aids in balancing the pH and clears out the excess mucus that has built up in the cavities. Furthermore, antibacterial and antifungal properties of ACV assist in battling the infection. Take 2 teaspoons of ACV with ¼ cup of water you can either drink or swill this water for better relief from sinusitis.
Don’t Miss: Advil Cold And Sinus Recommended Dosage
Have You Experienced Any Of The Following Symptoms For 12 Consecutive Weeks Or Longer And Are Over The Age Of 18
- Facial pain, pressure, or fullness
- Difficulty breathing through nose
In addition, the sinuses help the voice resonate, and can affect the way we perceive someones speech.4 That is, the shape, volume, and health of the sinuses influence how nasal we perceive someones voice to be.5
The sinuses need to be able to drain regularly and freely in order to clear mucus and to function properly. If this drainage gets blocked, sinus problems result.6
Conditions Associated With The Nasal Cavity
Cancer: A relatively rare form of cancer involving the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses, it may occur due to a pronged exposure to toxic fumes, excessive smoking, or old age. Certain strains of human papilloma virus are also believed to be responsible in some cases . Symptoms include blocked nose, nosebleeds, pus discharge, reduced sensitivity to smell, formation of lumps or sores inside nose and pain around the eyes or upper teeth . Common treatment methods involve chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery to remove the tumor .
Nasal Polyps: Sometimes, there are small benign lumps growing from the nasal cavity or sinus linings, often due to chronic inflammation resulting from allergies, infections, chronic asthma, or immune disorders . They do not usually cause any problems, but if the polyps grow large, one may experience nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, trouble with taste and smell, frequent infections, as well as facial pain, and itching .
Sinus Infection: A viral, bacterial, or fungal condition, it is characterized by a swollen and inflamed nasal cavity. Also known as a sinus headache or sinusitis, it causes pain and pressure in and around the sinuses, forehead, eyes, and teeth . Treatment depends on the cause of the infection .
Recommended Reading: Where To Get Antibiotics For Sinus Infection
Nose & Nasal Cavities
The framework of the nose consists of bone and cartilage. Two small nasal bones and extensions of the maxillae form the bridge of the nose, which is the bony portion. The remainder of the framework is cartilage and is the flexible portion. Connective tissue and skin cover the framework.
Air enters the nasal cavity from the outside through two openings: the nostrils or external nares. The openings from the nasal cavity into the pharynx are the internal nares. Nose hairs at the entrance to the nose trap large inhaled particles.
Clinical Relevance: Cribriform Plate Fracture
A fracture of the cribriform plate can occur as a result of nose trauma. It is either fractured directly by the trauma, or by fragments of the ethmoid bone.
A fractured cribriform plate can penetrate the meningeal linings of the brain, causing leakage of cerebro-spinal fluid. Exposing the brain to the outside environment like this increases the risks of meningitis, encephalitis and cerebral abscesses.
The olfactory bulb lies on the cribriform plate and can be damaged irreversibly by the fracture. In this case, the patient may present with anosmia .
Try again to score 100%. Use the information in this article to help you with the answers.
bookmarksperson
Our 3D anatomical model provides you with hands-on, interactive and valuable learning tool right here on your device. To access the TeachMeAnatomy 3D Model, you must be a premium subscriber.
The nose is an olfactory and respiratory organ. It consists of nasal skeleton, which houses the nasal cavity. The nasal cavity has four functions:
- Warms and humidifies the inspired air.
- Removes and traps pathogens and particulate matter from the inspired air.
- Responsible for sense of smell.
- Drains and clears the paranasal sinuses and lacrimal ducts.
In this article, we shall look at the anatomy of the nasal cavity – its divisions, structure and neurovascular supply.
You May Like: Things That Help With Sinus Pressure
Location Of The Sinus Cavities
- The frontal sinus is located in the frontal bone of the skull . It is positioned towards the midline in the lower part of the forehead and just above the orbit. Simply, it is located above the inner middle half of the eyebrows.
- The ethmoid sinus is located on the side of the nasal septum between the eyes.
- The sphenoid sinus is located posterior to the nasal cavity just below the recess that houses the pituitary gland at the base of the brain.
- The maxillary sinus is located on the maxilla in the cheek area .
How Do You Clear A Sinus Sphenoid
3. Sphenoid/ethmoid sinus massage
You May Like: Best Otc For Sinus And Chest Congestion
How Can I Keep My Nose Healthy
- Avoid smoking or breathing in secondhand smoke.
- Donât remove nose hairs, or do it carefully, because they filter dirt and debris.
- Drink plenty of water.
- Keep your home clean to reduce the amount of dust and other allergens you may breathe in. Wash your bedsheets to remove dust.
- Squirt saline into the nasal cavities to keep them clean and moist.
- Use a humidifier at home to keep the air moist.
Is It Necessary To Go To The Dentist When Feeling Sinus Pressure
If you arent too sure of the primary cause of your toothache, its best to visit your dentist. It is also best to go to the doctor if the symptoms persist after using expectorants and other prescribed drugs. The dentist will check to see the cause of the pain by x-raying the teeth to check for abscesses and cavities. If the teeth in question look healthy and do not show any signs of dental infections/problems, you most likely have sinus pressure or infection.
Recommended Reading: Sinus Pressure Causing Tooth Pain
How Is Sinusitis Diagnosed
Your healthcare provider will ask you a lot of questions in order to develop a detailed medical history and find out about your symptoms. They will also do a physical examination. During the exam, your care provider will check your ears, nose and throat for any swelling, draining or blockage. An endoscope may be used to look inside the nose. In some cases, you might be referred to an ear, nose and throat specialist. If you needed an imaging exam, your provider would order a computed tomography scan.
Unlocking The Mystery Of Your Sinuses: Answers To 8 Common Questions
An empty space can be a lot of something. That’s the story of your sinuses four pairs of air-filled interconnected cavities located between your eyes and nose. Along with the nasal passages in the nose, your sinuses produce and circulate mucus.
While the sinuses are small, they can cause a lot of misery for some people. Your sinuses are connected to your external environments through the nasal passages, and your sinuses can be exposed to allergens, viruses, fungi and bacteria. This can lead to inflammation, congestion, excess mucus, pain, postnasal drip and swelling around your eyes, cheeks, nose or forehead. Each year, about 29 million U.S. adults are diagnosed with an infection in their sinuses, also called sinusitis.
Recommended Reading: When Should You Go To The Doctor For Sinus Infection
What Gives With The Snot
Sinuses also create the mucus we so often complain about. But instead of complaining, you should be praising the mucus as it is much more essential than you think. That is, unless, youve got too much snot to handle.
Mucus lines and lubricates the walls of your nasal passages. Its helped along through the nasal passages by cilia . The pair work together to help filter incoming dust, bacteria, and other debris through the nasal passages and deposits it into the back of the throat to be swallowed.
Thats one well-oiled erm, mucused machine.
Do I Need Antibiotics For Every Sinus Infection
Many sinus infections are caused by viruses, the ones that cause the common cold. These types of infections are not cured by antibiotics. Taking an antibiotic for a viral infection unnecessarily puts you at risk for side effects related to the antibiotic. In addition, the overuse of antibiotics can lead to antibiotic resistance, which may make future infections more difficult to treat.
You May Like: Puffy Under One Eye Sinus
When Should I Go See The Doctor About A Sinus Infection
It is pretty easy to care for most sinus conditions on your own. However, if you continue to have symptoms that concern you or if your infections continue to happen, your primary care doctor might suggest you see a specialist. This could also happen if your CT scan shows something that does not look right.
A note from Cleveland Clinic
Sinusitis, or swelling of the tissues of the sinus cavities, is a common condition with many causes, including viruses and bacteria, nasal polyps or allergies. Signs and symptoms may including facial pressure, fever and tiredness. You can treat symptoms at home by resting, taking over-the-counter products and increasing your fluid intake. Make sure you contact your healthcare provider if symptoms do not improve, if sinusitis happens often or if you have any symptom that worries you.
Last reviewed by a Cleveland Clinic medical professional on 06/04/2020.
References
What Are The Symptoms Of A Bad Sinus Infection
Sinus Infection: Sinus infections and sinusitis is a condition in which the sinuses become inflamed and/or infected. Sinus infection symptoms and signs include bad breath, runny or stuffy nose, or nasal congestion, facial pain and swelling, tooth pain, ringing in the ears, sinus headache, fever, sore throat and cough.
Recommended Reading: Sinus Tooth Pain One Side
What Causes Sinusitis
When a personâs sinuses become infected, the slow transfer of mucus and gasses may stop and mucus builds up. This causes pain behind and around the eyes. It makes tipping the head forward almost unbearable.What does a person generally do when they have sinusitis? They rub the side of their nose , their temples or their eyes in search of relief.
What Are The Sinuses
The sinuses are hollow spaces in the skull and the face bones around your nose. There are four pairs of sinuses, named for the bones that theyre located in:
- The maxillary sinuses are located on each side of your nose, near the cheek bones.
- The frontal sinuses are located above the eyes, near your forehead.
- The ethmoid sinuses are located on each side of the bridge of your nose, near your eyes. There are three small pairs of the ethmoid sinuses.
- The sphenoid sinuses are behind the eyes, deeper into your skull.
These sinuses collectively are called the paranasal sinuses.
The name sinus comes from the Latin word sinus, which means a bay, a curve, or a hollow cavity.
Recommended Reading: What Is The Best Thing To Take For Sinus Congestion
When To Contact A Medical Professional
- Your symptoms last longer than 10 to 14 days or you have a cold that gets worse after 7 days.
- You have a severe headache that is not relieved by over-the-counter pain medicine.
- You have a fever.
- You still have symptoms after taking all of your antibiotics properly.
- You have any changes in your vision during a sinus infection.
A green or yellow discharge does not mean that you definitely have a sinus infection or need antibiotics.
Chronic Sinusitis Treatment Still A Puzzle
Chronic sinusitis is often difficult to treat. There are many factors that can lead to chronic inflammation of your sinus passages, and eliminating these factors is the first step in treatment of chronic sinusitis. Long-term medications or even surgery may be necessary to control and treat symptoms.
Also Check: Mucinex Dm For Sinus Congestion
What Is The Best Sinus Medicine
First Look
- Best Overall: GoodSense Nasal Decongestant at Amazon.
- Best Natural: Vicks Cool Mist Humidifier at Amazon.
- Best Spray: Flonase Allergy Relief Nasal Spray at Amazon.
- Best for Colds: Mucinex Sinus-Max Liquid at walgreens.com.
- Best for Sinus Infections: Sudafed PE Pressure + Pain + Relief at Amazon.
When Should I Call A Doctor About My Nose
Talk to a healthcare provider if you experience any of the following symptoms in your nose:
- Frequent nosebleeds, or nosebleeds that wonât stop.
- Fever higher than 103°F, which could be a sign of infection.
- Yellow or green discharge from the nose, which could mean infection.
- Sinus pain.
- Snoring, especially if it keeps you awake at night.
- If you are unhappy with the appearance of your nose.
A note from Cleveland Clinic
Your nose is part of your respiratory system and performs several important jobs. It provides a sense of smell and filters dirt and allergens out of air as you breathe. Nasal symptoms such as a stuffy nose or nosebleed are common and usually not a reason for concern. But call a healthcare provider if you have pain or signs of infection.
Don’t Miss: Prescription Antibiotics For Sinus Infection
Blood Supply And Lymphatics
Paranasal Sinuses
The anterior and posterior ethmoidal branches of the ophthalmic artery supply the ethmoidal and frontal sinuses. The infraorbital artery and the superior, anterior, and posterior alveolar branches of the maxillary artery supply the mucosa of the maxillary sinus. The pharyngeal branch of the maxillary artery supplies the sphenoidal sinus.
Function In The Respiratory System
The nasal cavity and its mucosa have two primary purposes in the process of breathing:
Role as a Passage for Inhaled Air : During inhalation, air enters through the nostrils and passes via the nasal cavity into the pharynx and larynx, the next sections in the respiratory tract, to eventually reach the lungs. The exhaled air travels in the reverse path and leaves the body through the nasal cavity.
Role of Mucus Membrane in Purifying the Air: The thick mucus membrane, along with the vibrissae present in the inner walls of the nasal cavity, purifies the inhaled air by trapping any dust, bacteria, and foreign particles in it, allowing only clean air to enter the body. The small hair-like projections, or cilia, works to move the dust particles trapped by the mucus membrane to the back of the throat where they may be swallowed , or to the nose where can be eliminated through sneezing or blowing out .
It also humidifies and warms up the inhaled air to monitor the nature and temperature of the air that enters the respiratory tract . During exhalation, it absorbs heat and moisture from the air on its way out from the body .
Recommended Reading: Can A Sinus Infection Clear Up On Its Own
Sphenoid Ostium And Sphenoethmoid Recess
The natural sphenoid sinus ostium is located 1.5 cm superior to the posterior choanae on the anterior sphenoid sinus wall. The natural ostium is elliptical in shape and is found in close association with the superior turbinate in the sphenoethmoid recess. In 83% of cases, the ostium is located medial to the superior turbinate and may be visualized with gentle lateralization of the superior turbinate.
Another anatomic landmark for identifying the sphenoid ostium involves dividing the superior turbinate into thirds. The natural ostium lies at the junction of the inferior and middle thirds of the superior turbinate.
The sphenoethmoid recess is the narrow vertical corridor enclosed by the septum medially and the superior turbinate laterally. It is defined superiorly by the cribriform plate and inferiorly by the floor of the nasal cavity. The natural sphenoid ostium drains into this corridor, as do the posterior ethmoid cells.
Parallelogram box theory
The sphenoid sinus can be entered not only through the natural sphenoid sinus ostium but also through the posterior ethmoid cells. The so-called parallelogram box concept provides a safe mechanism for entering the sphenoid sinus through the posterior ethmoid complex.
Onodi cell
The Onodi cell , or sphenoethmoid cell, is a posterior ethmoidal cell that pneumatizes posterior, lateral, and superior to the sphenoid face. It is present in 7-25% of patients and nearly 50% of patients from East Asia.