Sinus cavities are unique and perform important functions such as draining mucus and filtering and warming inhaled air. They also add resonance to the voice and protect the skull. Problems can occur, such as sinusitis and tumors, which may require surgical intervention.
The sinus cavities, also known as the sinuses, are cavities in the bones of the face designed to perform a number of important functions. Humans and many other animals, including birds, have breasts. These cavities are only visible on x-rays, and in fact these cavities are unique and have been used as fingerprints in forensic examinations. The term “sinus” is actually Latin for “cavity,” making “sinus cavity” a rather redundant term, even though many people aren’t aware of it.
There are four sets of sinuses in the skull. The ethmoid sinuses are located between the eyes, while the sphenoid sinuses are behind the eyes. In the upper jaw, below the eyes, are the maxillary sinuses, and the frontal sinuses are above the nose. Each cavity is lined with a mucous membrane and numerous cilia, tiny hairs that move, forcing the contents of the sinuses to move through the cavity and drain through the nose.
One of the key functions of the sinus cavities is to drain mucus. Mucus is used to trap harmful substances that might otherwise enter the body and is continually generated by the body. The sinuses facilitate the collection and drainage of mucus so that it cannot build up and cause an infection to develop. This reduces the risk of infection for the body as bacteria and viruses get caught in the mucus and can also trap potential allergens.
These cavities also filter and warm the air inhaled from the body, and act to relieve the skull. If the sinus cavities were filled with bone, the skull would be extremely heavy and dense, making movement difficult. The sinuses also add resonance to the voice and help protect the skull in the event of an impact to the face.
The breasts can develop problems. The most common problem occurs when they fill up with mucus and are unable to drain, leading to sinusitis, in which inflammation of the sinus cavities occurs. Lack of drainage can cause pain and leave people feeling heavy and tired. Chronic sinusitis can be extremely irritating, and in some cases, a surgical technique may be used to widen the sinuses and their drainage outlets to reduce mucus and fluid buildup. Tumors can also develop in the breasts, with the potential to metastasize to other areas of the body.
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