Many are surprised to learn that their sinuses control the tone of their voice, that they have eight of them, and that they are not just in your nose. We all have two sinus cavities behind each eye, two in the bones between the eyes, two behind each cheek bone, and two under the forehead. In addition to protecting our lungs from allergens, pollutants, and infections, researchers suggest that sinuses also decrease pressure inside and weight of the head. As with any complex system, much can go wrong with serious consequences for your health, energy, and appearance.
- A blockage in your sinuses increases your likelihood for infection, congesting the cavities and giving the tone of your voice a “nasal-ly” quality. When we have headaches or painful pressure from constricted air-flow and blockages, we tend to contract our facial muscles, creating or worsening wrinkles.
- Sometimes chronic congestion and pressure is due to narrow nasal passages, which continually constrict the flow of air and build-up of mucus; the motion of repeated nose-blowing (itself indiscrete) wrinkles the face and dries out otherwise lovely skin with frequent contact to tissues.
- Allergies, which inflame tissues near your eyes, can induce puffy, itching and watery eyes with a tired and overall less youthful appearance.
- Finally, nasal structures, like a deviated septum, nasal valve collapse or enlarged turbinates can block airflow intake, making you feel and look tired and fatigued.
Resolving these issues, and their consequences on the face, is only sometimes a matter of avoiding pollutants, using medication, and staying hydrated. For those with chronic sinus pain, congestion, and headaches from structural issues, such as narrow passages or a deviated septum, protecting their health and facial aesthetics becomes a matter of surgery. Consultating with an experienced, board-certified specialist you trust to prevent health issues and aging is the first step.
