Sniffing out sinus-related problems
Your sinuses are something of a mystery. They are a grouping of interconnected air pockets within the bones of your skull, but experts aren’t really sure what their true purpose is. Some speculate they are there to provide a cushion, protecting your face in the event of a fall or injury. Others think they’re designed to warm and humidify the air you breathe before it makes its way into your lungs, says Dr. Tanya Laidlaw, director of translational research in the Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology at Harvard-affiliated Brigham and Women’s Hospital.
To continue reading this article, you must log in.
Subscribe to Harvard Health Online Plus (HHO+) to unlock expert-backed health insights, personalized tools, and exclusive resources to feel your best every day.
Here’s what you get with your HHO+ membership:
- Unlimited access to all Harvard Health Online content
- 4 expertly curated newsletters delivered monthly
- Customized website experience aligned to your health goals
- In-depth health guides on topics like sleep, exercise, and more
- Interactive features like videos and quizzes
- Members-only access to exclusive articles and resources
I’d like to subscribe to HHO+ for $4.99/month to access expert-backed content to help make smart, informed decisions about my well-being.
Sign Me UpAlready a member? Login ».
About the Author

Kelly Bilodeau, Former Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.