Your sinuses are
hollow air-filled spaces within the bones of your face, behind and above
your nose. Sinus means a cavity or hollow, but we see them as part of
our breathing apparatus The lining of the sinuses produces a soft
gel-like fluid called mucous, and tiny hairs, called cilia.
What is its function?
The mucous and cilia humidify and warm the air you breathe, aid your
sense of smell, and improve the sound of your voice. There is a constant
sweeping by theses cilia of mucus out of your sinuses and into your nose
and throat through small openings which cleans and moisturizes your
nasal passages.
Why is it a problem when the sinuses don't function properly?
When the sinus linings become infected, usually due to viruses or
bacteria, they may swell, causing an obstruction and interfering with
normal drainage of mucus. Infection causes swelling, which makes it even
harder for your sinuses to drain, causing pressure pain headache fever,
and local tenderness.
Things you can do to help yourself.
Drink plenty of liquids to help dilute the secretions. Have you ever
"steamed" your face? It feels so good.
A quick method is to fill a sink with very nice warm water, gently
put your head over the waves of steamy warm water, and place a towel
over you and the sink. Inhale a couple of times, but don't prolong it.
Just feel the warm breeze on your face. Applying warm facial packs work,
too. Be careful not to scald yourself.
Avoid bending over with your head down. This can cause more pain and
pressure.
