As founder and President of Setliff Sinus Institute, I have offered Midwest patients effective and compassionate care for their nasal and sinus issues for nearly 20 years. Drawing air through the nasal passages, the sinuses function as air-containing cavities within the face and skull. The eight sinus cavities are situated between, below, and behind the eyes, as well as in the forehead. Together, the nose and the sinuses make up the upper respiratory system, with the nose acting as the first line of defense against airborne diseases, pollutants, and other irritants.
The nose also acts as a humidifier in hot, dry environments, protecting the bronchial tubes and the sensitive lung tissues they lead to. One of the most important protective barriers in the nose is mucous, which coats and protects delicate tissues and linings, and possesses infection-fighting properties. The sinuses serve an invaluable function in helping the nose produce mucous. The nose and sinus cavities are connected through extremely small passageways, ensuring a constant, controlled supply of air. Mucous is transported from the sinuses and the nose down the throat via tiny hairs called cilia.
A very important aspect of this muco-ciliary clearance is free movement of the mucous out of the sinuses are from the front to the back of the nose. Cases of nasal blockage cause a runny nose, which means that mucous flows toward the front of the nose rather than the back. Even partial sinus blockage can cause a deterioration of sinus health, resulting in stuffiness, congestion, and eventually infection.
Unfortunately, in these cases the nose and sinuses work in tandem to rid the sinuses of infection, resulting in more mucous, which often adds to the congestion problem. Symptoms such as fatigue, cough, fitful sleep, frequent clearing of the throat, and a reduced sense of smell indicate sinus infection if they last more than a week. At Setliff Sinus Institute, we run thorough diagnostics that help identify the root cause of the sinus or nasal problem, providing quick and straightforward solutions.
About the Author: Dr. Reuben Setliff has operated Setliff Sinus Institute in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, since 1993. He remains committed to providing patients with fast and cost-effective nasal and sinus solutions.
Dr. Reuben Setliff 