Tag: Sinuses

While the term 'pilonidal cyst' is a common misnomer, the condition is often a pilonidal sinus that can lead to an abscess. This highlights a crucial point of distinction: are cysts and sinuses the same? The answer is no, as a cyst is a sac-like growth, whereas a sinus is an anatomical channel, tunnel, or cavity.

In humans, the formation of air-filled cavities in bone, known as pneumatization, is a normal physiological process that begins before birth and continues through adolescence. So, what is the meaning of pneumatization? It refers to the presence or development of these air spaces, most commonly found in the skull, such as the paranasal and mastoid sinuses.

Derived from the Greek word 'sphen,' meaning 'wedge,' the prefix **spheno-** is used in medical terms to refer to the sphenoid bone. This butterfly-shaped bone sits at the base of the skull and is a critical part of the human neurocranium.

The average sneeze can travel at up to 100 miles per hour, generating substantial internal pressure that is meant to be expelled. Understanding **why is it not good to hold your sneeze in** is vital, as suppressing this powerful reflex can have a range of unforeseen and potentially serious health consequences.