Sinusitis
The sinuses consist of four cavities found on each side of the nasal area. The two largest of the four are the frontal and maxillary sinuses. The frontal sinuses are located right above the eye sockets on both sides and the maxillary sinuses are found on each side of the nose. The last two sinuses are the ethmoidal and sphenoidal sinuses. The ethmoidal sinuses are located right between the eyes, and the sphenoidal are located on each side of the nose in the area of the eye sockets.

Healthy and clear sinuses constantly produce and drain mucous. The mucous acts as a blanket of defense to trap foreign particles and bacteria to carry them out of the body. When an underlying problem develops such as allergies or a common cold, it can cause swelling of the mucous membranes and the thickening of the mucous. This reaction causes the sinuses to drain.

Sinusitis can be related to many different environmental and health factors. Most people suffer from allergies or the common cold. The inability to get rid of the symptoms can cause frequent sinus infections. The symptoms range from increased sinus pressure, drainage to burning or itching of the mucous membranes, and are commonly related to sinus headaches. Sinusitis can also be caused by a nasal polyp, which can obstruct the flow of mucous giving you a feeling of "fullness." Polyps, depending on severity, can be removed with surgery. Surgery can also help a person who has a deviated septum. The symptoms of a deviated septum also can mimic the symptoms of sinusitis.

With acute sinusitis that comes on suddenly and is often brought on by an allergy attack or a cold, medications such as antihistamines will help relieve sinus symptoms. Chronic sinusitis is often a sign of ongoing swelling in the lining of the mucous membranes. This may be treated with antibiotics to help eliminate any infection, and/or the option of surgery to have the lining of your sinuses removed and to create a new opening for drainage. Your surgeon will either use an endoscope or do open surgery. Endoscopic sinus surgery is done with an endoscope. This instrument is inserted into the nostril and has a light on the end of it so the surgeon can see up into the sinuses. If the lining of the mucous membrane is seriously damaged, the surgeon will want to do open surgery that requires stitches. While most people will feel much better after having sinus surgery, some may require additional surgeries for optimal benefit.