Health & Care Information
Learn all about sphenoid sinus disease, symptoms, causes, treatment.
Sphenoid sinuses are just behind the skull, above the nasopharynx and just below the pituitary gland. It is difficult to identify diseases in this part because of its location.
The main symptom of sinusitis is a throbbing pain and pressure around the eyeball, which is made worse by bending forwards. Although the sphenoid sinuses are less frequently affected, infection in this area can cause earache, neck pain, or an ache behind the eyes, at the top of the head, or in the temples.
In addition, drainage of mucus from the sphenoid down the back of the throat (postnasal drip) can cause a sore throat and can irritate the membranes lining the larynx. Prevention can be targeted at limiting infections with viral upper respiratory infections, in addition to treating allergic reactions, avoiding first and second hand smoking or deep diving in swimming pools. Dry nasal airways can also increase the risk of bacterial infection.
This occurs especially in winter and can be treated with the use of humidifiers. Nasal sprays are additionally beneficial in limiting the inflammation that takes place in case of allergies.
Sphenoid Sinus Disease
When an acute inflammatory response occurs in the sphenoid sinus, the result is sphenoid sinusitis or sphenoiditis. The disease is relatively uncommon comparatively, chronic sphenoid sinusitis is more common and may be limited to the sphenoid sinus or, more commonly, may involve multiple sinuses or pansinusitis. Sphenoid sinusitis is an inflammation-related condition that can create uncomfortable symptoms and headache.
Sphenoid Sinus Symptoms
The symptoms that identify the condition of Sphenoid Sinusitis are:
- Continuous running nose
- Headache, especially around the cheekbones and the posterior nasal region is a symptom of Sphenoid
- Sinusitis.
- Blockage in the nose
- Pressure sense in and around the cheekbones and the nose
- Fever
- Respiratory tract infections can also be a symptom of sphenoid sinusitis
- Feeling of uneasiness
- Sneezing and throat pain
- Pain the teeth
- Swollen eyes with constant watering
- Nasal Bleeding
Sphenoid Sinus Causes
The primary causative factor behind the sphenoid sinusitis is the presence of the bacterial infection within the sphenoid sinus. The bacterium responsible for the infection and inflammation is Streptococcus pneumonia. The other causative agent apart from the bacteria is the viral infection of sinus due to Haemophilus influenza. These microbes cause the excessive secretion of mucus within the sinus and block the nasal cavity. The causes are as under:
- Upper respiratory tract infection
- Tooth Abscess
- Allergy
- Nasal Passage Structural Defects
- Nasal Polyps
- Enlargement of Adenoids
- Weak Immunity
Sphenoid Sinus Treatment
Sphenoid sinus treatments available for the condition are both surgical as well as non-surgical.
Non-surgical Measures for Treating Sphenoid Sinusitis: These measures include administration of nasal decongestants, nasal sprays, steam inhalation, nasal glucocorticoids, mild analgesics and oral antibiotics like amoxicillin.
For surgical operations involving sphenoid sinus, it can be extremely risky. It can be found just below the brain. Surgery can cause Infection the leakage of the cerebral fluid called CSF. The CSF surrounds the brain. When leaking occurs, the best way to stop it is to take complete bed rest. When the leakage doesn’t stop, the patient should undergo brain surgery.
Sphenoid Sinus Treatment Home Remedies
- Sphenoid sinus treatment home remedies that you could try using for a sinus infection.
- Gently press the sides of your nose using your thumbs for about 15 seconds. This helps to improve the blood flow to the sinuses.
- Drink plenty of fluids such as water and juices to loosen the mucus and enable it to drain easily. Avoid drinking caffeinated beverages as these can dehydrate the body.
- Make sure you get adequate rest when you have a sinus infection. This allows your body to heal properly.
- Alcohol can cause the mucus membranes of the nasal and sinus passages to swell and hence it is best to avoid any beverages containing alcohol.
- One of the best sinusitis home remedies is steam inhalation. Take some boiling water in a large bowl and breathe in the steam rising out of it. You can drape a towel over your head to prevent the steam from escaping. You can also add a couple of drops of eucalyptus essential oil to relieve congestion.
- Garlic is antibiotic in nature and is greatly helpful in fighting various respiratory infections. Eat 2 to 3 cloves of raw garlic daily for relief from sinus trouble, as the problem in most cases stems from minor infections of the respiratory passage.
- Pain, congestion and tenderness due to sinusitis can be alleviated by simply having a hot shower. Breathe in the warm air as you bathe, as it promotes drainage of the sinus cavities.
- You can ease congestion also by keeping your head elevated. Keep a couple of pillows under your head at night.
If you suffer from repeated bouts of sinusitis, it is a good idea to keep a humidifier in the house. This will prevent your air passages from getting dry and irritated. Remember to clean the device regularly to avoid fungal growth. - Herbal teas made with peppermint, fennel and sage are beneficial in draining the nasal and sinus passages.
To relieve nasal congestion, blow out one nostril at a time. Blowing out both nostrils together can lead to a pressure buildup in your ears, which causes bacteria to move back into the sinuses. - One of the most effective ways to reduce facial pain and tenderness is with a warm compress. Place the compress over the eyes, nose, cheeks and jaw area.
- Capsaicin found in cayenne peppers helps to naturally decongest the nose. You can add cayenne peppers to your meals.
- Use a solution of salt water to drain the nasal passages and flush out bacteria and mucus. This technique is referred to as jal neeti in yoga, and if you’re unfamiliar with the practice it may not be the best idea to try out.
