Sinus x-ray
Definition
A sinus
Alternative Names
Paranasal sinus radiography; X-ray - sinuses
How the Test is Performed
A sinus x-ray is taken in a hospital radiology department. Or the x-ray may be taken in the health care provider's office. You are asked to sit in a chair so that any fluid in the sinuses can be seen in the x-ray images. The technologist may place your head in different positions as the images are taken.
How to Prepare for the Test
Tell the doctor or x-ray technologist if you are or think you are pregnant. You will be asked to remove all jewelry. You may be asked to change into a gown.
How the Test will Feel
There is little or no discomfort with a sinus x-ray.
Why the Test is Performed
The sinuses are located behind the forehead, nasal bones, cheeks, and eyes. When the sinus openings become blocked or too much mucus builds up, bacteria and other germs can grow. This can lead to an infection and inflammation of the sinuses called
A sinus x-ray is ordered when you have any of the following:
- Symptoms of sinusitis
- Other sinus disorders, such as a deviated septum (crooked or bent septum, the structure that separates the nostrils)
- Symptoms of another infection of that area of the head
These days, a sinus x-ray is not often ordered. This is because a
What Abnormal Results Mean
The x-ray may detect an infection, blockages, bleeding or tumors.
Risks
There is low radiation exposure. X-rays are monitored and regulated so that the lowest amount of radiation is used to produce the image.
Pregnant women and children are more sensitive to the risks of x-rays.
References
Beale T, Brown J, Rout J. ENT, neck, and dental radiology. In: Adam A, Dixon AK, Gillard JH, Schaefer-Prokop CM, eds. Grainger & Allison's Diagnostic Radiology: A Textbook of Medical Imaging. 6th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier Churchill Livingstone; 2015:chap 67.
Mettler FA. Head and soft tissues of face and neck. In: Mettler FA, ed. Essentials of Radiology. 4th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2019: chap 2.
Review Date: 08/12/2019
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