The Ultimate Guide to Sinus Perforation: How to Effectively Heal and Recover

Published Sept. 21, 2023

Sinuses are air-filled cavities. They are found in bones, such as facial and forehead ones. These cavities help trigger mucus production in the nasal cavity. They humidify the air in the nasal cavity. 

Sinus also reduces the weight of the facial bones. Perforation, or hole of the sinus cavity in the nose or the membrane of the alveolar sinus in the cheek, is called a sinus perforation. 

If you suspect you have sinus perforation because you’re experiencing facial pain, among other symptoms, keep reading. Perhaps you want to educate yourself in this regard, also stay. In this article, we’re going to tackle everything about perforated sinuses. What are its symptoms, causes, and treatment, and how can probiotics help it? Let’s get started. 

What Is Sinus Perforation?

Sinus perforation is the perforation of the sinus cavity in the nasal cavity. It is also a puncture in the cavity where the teeth are located in the cheek. It occurs due to many reasons. Some may acquire it because of trauma, infection, and surgical intervention. Also, specific medication use. 

It is known for causing facial pain. It also triggers nasal congestion, nosebleeds, and infection. A perforated sinus treatment is based on its size, symptoms, and underlying causes. 

How Serious Is a Perforated Sinus? 

If diagnosed and treated swiftly, the condition poses no concern. But, if you leave it untreated, it can lead to chronic sinusitis. Chronic sinusitis has serious health consequences. 

The tears and perforations in the tissues reading your sinus walls make it more vulnerable to infections. When viruses and bacteria enter them, they spark inflammation. In turn, it causes sinus pain and pressure. Also, other sinus infection symptoms:

Sinus infection, in turn, can lead to severe complications like:

• eye infections
• bone infections
• brain abscess
• meningitis
• thrombosis

Though the above complications are rare, they can still happen and sometimes be fatal.

Symptoms of Perforated Sinus

Facial pain is the main symptom of sinus perforation. However, it comes with a different range of indications that are a dilemma: 

1. Air escaping to the mouth when breathing
2. Periodic bleeding at or near the extraction area 
3. Liquid coming out of the nose as you drink
4. Change in voice timbre
5. Bad breath
6. Nasal discharge
7. Nasal congestion
8. Sinus pain and pressure
9. Nosebleeds 
10. Facial swelling
11. Inner ear or toothache
12. Loss or distortion of smell 

To rule out if you indeed have a perforated sinus, you can do a nasal test. 

Start by slightly pressing your nose using your thumb and forefinger. Then, while keeping your nostrils pressed, try to blow air through your nose. If you hear a hissing sound in the extraction area, air can pass through your sinuses to your mouth – a sign of sinus perforation.

But if there’s no hissing sound, your sinus walls remain intact. If this is the case and you still feel pain in your sinus area, it can be a sign of a sinus or gum infection. Consult your doctor to be sure.

What Causes a Perforated Sinus? 

• Trauma. Nasal trauma can lead to a perforated sinus. It can be a direct blow to the nose or injury from accidents. 
• Nasal Drug Use. Frequent and abusive use of nasal drugs can cause damage to the nasal septum. It leads to perforation. 
• Nasal Infections. Certain infections, such as chronic sinusitis or other bacteria and fungal infections, can trigger sinus perforation. 
• Prolonged inflammation of the nasal septum
• Nasal surgeries 
• Some dental procedures 
• Malignant tumors

Is a Perforated Sinus an Emergency?

A perforated sinus is not typically considered a medical emergency. But, it doesn’t erase the need to seek medical attention. You must have proper evaluation. Also, treatment. 

A perforated sinus can lead to various complications. It is if left untreated. It is advisable to consult with a doctor. They can assess the severity of the perforation. Moreover, it gives you appropriate treatment options.

How Do You Treat Sinus Perforation?

It will undergo treatment that varies depending on its size to heal sinus perforation. It will also differ against the cause and symptoms of the perforation. 

1. Wait and See 

Small sinus perforation often heals on its own. These may not cause symptoms. Thus, you may wait and observe to recover if you have mild symptoms. 

2. Antibiotic Treatment 

Antibiotics are the line of treatment for a perforation born due to a sinus infection. 

3. Surgical Treatment 

Chronic sinus perforation may require surgical treatment. 

The dentist may recommend surgery to close the perforation in more severe cases. The process may differ depending on your dentist’s technique, but it usually involves the following:

• placement of collagen membranes or other resorbable membranes at the meeting point of the sinus and the tooth root
• packing a bone graft particulate on the sides and securing it so it does not slide into the sinus
• suturing the membrane over the graft to keep it in place

After the surgery, you’ll typically be given antibiotics to avoid infections while your sinus is healing. You’ll also be given a set of post-operative instructions which can include:

• not blowing through your nose
• not to smoke
• avoiding anything that can irritate the nose and cause you to sneeze or cough

4. Conservative Treatment 

Some synthetic tissue adhesives and tampons can be a treatment for small perforations. They are applied to the nasal wall to treat sinus perforation. The two aid in supporting the natural healing process of the sinus cavity. 

5. Probiotics 

Probiotics are one treatment that is getting a lot recognizable for sinus perforation. It can help restore and maintain a balanced microbial environment in the nasal passages and sinuses. It is essential for nasal and sinus health. Thus, it lessens the risks of infections and inflammations that worsen a sinus infection. 

How Do You Prevent Sinus Perforation?

1. Avoid Trauma 

Be cautious during physical activities and sports. Especially those that may pose a risk of injury to your nose and face. If necessary, use protective gear. 

2. Be gentle with nasal care. 

Handle your nose and nasal passages delicately. Avoid excessive blowing of the nose. Do not insert objects such as swabs or sharp items into your nostrils. 

3. Use nasal sprays properly. 

If you use nasal sprays, do it properly. Follow instructions prepared by your healthcare professional. Avoid prolonged and excessive use. 

4. Moisturize the nasal passages. 

Keeping the nasal passages moisturized will also help. It can prevent dryness and irritation. The two that contributes to sinus perforation. Use saline nasal sprays and rinses. Doing so will aid to maintain moisture levels. 

5. Treat nasal infections promptly. 

Seek medical treatment for nasal infections immediately. Doing so will aid in lessening the risk of complications that could lead to sinus perforation. 

6. Avoid nasal drug use. 

Illicit drug use, such as cocaine, can significantly increase the risk of nasal damage and perforation. Avoid using drugs through the nasal route. 

7. Follow aftercare instructions

Follow your healthcare professional’s post-operative instructions if you undergo nasal or sinus surgery. Doing so will promote proper healing. It will also lessen the risk of perforation. 

How Probiotics Can Help With Perforated Sinus?

1. Immune System Support 

Probiotics have a role in a healthy immune system. It promotes a wholesome and diverse microbiome. It helps strengthen our body’s defenses against infections. It includes sinus infections.

2. Anti-inflammatory Effects 

Chronic inflammation is often related to sinus issues. Some studies suggest that probiotics have anti-inflammatory properties. It, in turn, will aid in lessening inflammation. Specially, the one in the sinuses. 

3. Microbiome Balance 

The nasal microbiome plays a massive role in the maintenance of sinus health. Probiotics support. They restore and maintain a healthy balance of bacteria in the nasal and sinus cavities. As a result, they heal the risk of infections. Also, facilitate remedy.

Bionaze is one great probiotic choice for perforated sinuses. It is a proprietary blend of two wholesome strains. BLIS K12 and BL-04. The two are well-known in the scientific community. It promotes good oral health. It is also proven to reduce oral, halitosis, and upper respiratory tract infections.

 It safeguards our digestive, oral, heart, and brain health. Take control over your wellness by introducing the Bionaze probiotic supplement to your health regime. Beat sinus perforation and many other health dilemmas and optimize your well-being.