Nasal sinus

Nasal Sinus

The Nasal Sinus, also known as the Paranasal Sinuses, are a group of four paired air-filled spaces that surround the nasal cavity. The sinus cavities are named for the facial bones in which they are located: the maxillary sinuses, the frontal sinuses, the ethmoid sinuses, and the sphenoid sinuses.

Anatomy

The Nasal Sinus is part of the respiratory system. Each sinus is named for the bone in which it is located. The largest of the sinuses, the maxillary sinuses, are located in the cheek area and are often the most commonly affected by sinusitis. The frontal sinuses are located in the forehead, the ethmoid sinuses between the eyes, and the sphenoid sinuses are located behind the ethmoid sinuses.

Function

The primary function of the Nasal Sinus is to produce a mucus that moisturizes the inside of the nose. This mucus layer protects the nose from pollutants, micro-organisms, dust, and dirt. Sinuses also play a role in our ability to vocalize certain sounds.

Health and Disease

Conditions affecting the Nasal Sinus include sinusitis, an inflammation or swelling of the tissue lining the sinuses, and nasal polyps, which are soft, painless, noncancerous growths on the lining of your nasal passages or sinuses. Treatment for these conditions can range from medication to surgery.

See Also

• Nasal cavity
• Respiratory system
• Sinusitis
• Nasal polyps