Sinuses are hollow spaces in the bones around the nose that connect to the nose through small, narrow channels. The sinuses stay healthy when the channels are open, which allows air from the nose to enter the sinuses and mucus made in the sinuses to drain into the nose.

Sinus Conditions

• Acute sinusitis (sinus infection): Viruses or bacteria infect the sinus cavity, causing inflammation. Increased mucus production, nasal congestion, discomfort in the cheeks, forehead or around the eyes and headaches are common symptoms.
• Chronic sinusitis (or chronic rhinosinusitis): More than just a series of infections, chronic sinusitis is a persistent process of inflammation of the sinuses.
• Allergic rhinitis: Allergens like pollen, dust mites, or pet dander cause the defenses in the nose and sinuses to overreact. Mucus, nasal stuffiness, sneezing, and itching result.
• Deviated septum: If the septum that divides the nose deviates too far too one side, airflow can be obstructed.
• Turbinate hypertophy: The ridges on the nasal septum are enlarged, potentially obstructing airflow.
• Nasal polyps: Small growths called polyps sometimes grow in the nasal cavity, in response to inflammation. Asthma, chronic sinus infections, and allergic rhinitis can lead to nasal polyps.

Sinus Tests

• Physical examination: A doctor can look into the nose with a lighted viewer to see the turbinates, which may be swollen. She may press or tap on the face over the sinuses to check for pain.
• Computed tomography (CT scan): A CT scanner uses X-rays and a computer to create detailed images of the sinuses. CT scanning can help diagnose chronic sinusitis.
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): Magnetic waves create highly detailed images of the sinuses. CT and MRI scans may be used together.
• Endoscopy (rhinoscopy): Using a flexible tube with a camera on its end, a doctor can examine the inside of the nose and sinuses.
• Sinus cultures: A mucus sample can be taken from inside the sinuses. This is done with a needle or during endoscopy.
• Skin Test for Allergies: Skin testing for various allergens can help determine if allergies are contributing to sinusitis.
• Sinus X-ray: A plain X-ray may show problems with the bones around the sinuses. A CT scan is superior to plain X-ray films.

Cigarette smoking causes more than 480,000 deaths each year in the United States. This is about one in five deaths.

CDC – Centers for Disease and Prevention Control

The facts about smoking

You know that smoking is dangerous. But do you know all the facts?

• Cigarettes cause cancer. Smoking is the number one cause of deaths due to lung cancer, emphysema, and other serious diseases.
• For every person who dies of smoking-related illness, 20 more suffer from a chronic disease due to smoking.
• Smoking doesn t just hurt you. Second-hand smoke from your cigarettes is a serious danger to your children, family, and friends.

The facts are clear: quitting smoking will protect your health. According to the Surgeon General, quitting smoking is the single most important step a smoker can take to improve the length and quality of her or her life.

If you re ready to quit smoking, there are many counseling programs available to the public one being Freedom From Smoking® Online is an innovative smoking cessation program from the American Lung Association®. When you become a member, you’ll get:

• A 7-module program to show you how to quit smoking
• Tools and resources to help you on your quitting journey
• Solid information about preparing to quit
• Guidance through your Quit Day and the first few weeks of being smoke-free
• An online community of fellow quitters to give you ongoing support

Counseling programs like Freedom From Smoking® Online have been proven to greatly increase your chance of quitting successfully.  Whoever you choose quitting is the right choice if you want a healthy and longer life.