What Are the Symptoms of a Cyst in the Sinus?

By Dr. Sagar Rajkuwar, ENT Specialist, Nashik, Maharashtra, India

🌐 www.entspecialistinnashik.com

 

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. What Is a Sinus Cyst?
3. Common Symptoms of a Sinus Cyst
4. When Are Sinus Cysts Usually Asymptomatic?
5. Causes of Maxillary Sinus Retention Cysts
6. Sinus Cysts vs Nasal Polyps: Key Differences
7. Diagnosis of a Sinus Cyst
8. Treatment Options for Sinus Retention Cysts
9. Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (ESS)
10. Post-Treatment Care and Recovery
11. Preventing Future Sinus Problems
12. When Should You See an ENT Specialist?
13. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
14. Conclusion

 

A Complete Guide to Maxillary Sinus Retention Cysts

1.Introduction

A cyst in the sinus, most commonly a maxillary sinus retention cyst, is a benign, fluid-filled sac that forms inside the sinus cavity. These cysts are often discovered incidentally during dental X-rays or CT scans done for other reasons. In many cases, they cause no symptoms at all. However, when they grow larger or coexist with sinus inflammation, they may lead to discomfort and chronic sinus complaints.

Understanding the symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment options for sinus cysts is essential for timely care and long-term relief. This article explains everything you need to know about sinus retention cysts in clear, patient-friendly language.

 

2.What Is a Sinus Cyst?

A sinus cyst is a non-cancerous, fluid-filled sac that develops in the lining of a sinus. The most common type is the maxillary sinus retention cyst, which occurs in the maxillary sinuses located behind the cheeks.

What Is a Maxillary Sinus Retention Cyst?

A retention cyst forms when a mucus gland duct becomes blocked in the sinus lining. As mucus continues to be produced but cannot drain normally, fluid collects and gradually forms a cyst.

Key points:

• Benign (non-cancerous)

• Usually slow growing

• Often found incidentally

• Rarely life-threatening

 

3.Common Symptoms of a Sinus Cyst

Most sinus retention cysts are asymptomatic, but symptoms can appear depending on size, location, and associated sinus disease.

1. Facial Pain or Pressure

• Dull ache or pressure in the cheek, upper jaw, or beneath the eye

• Worsens when bending forward

• Often confused with dental pain

2. Headache

• Persistent or recurring headaches

• Typically felt around the cheeks, eyes, or forehead

• May worsen during sinus infections

3. Nasal Congestion

• Feeling of blocked or stuffy nose

• Usually on the side of the affected sinus

• May fluctuate in severity

4. Postnasal Drip

• Mucus draining down the throat

• Can cause throat irritation or chronic cough

• Often worse at night

5. Recurrent Sinus Infections

• Frequent episodes of sinusitis

• Symptoms include fever, thick nasal discharge, and facial pain

• Cyst may interfere with normal sinus drainage

6. Reduced Sense of Smell or Taste

• Partial or complete loss of smell (hyposmia or anosmia)

• Reduced taste perception

7. Dental Symptoms

• Pain or pressure in upper back teeth

• Sensation of heaviness in the jaw

• Often mistaken for dental disease

8. Ear Pressure or Fullness

• Feeling of blocked ears

• Occasional ear pain due to sinus pressure changes

 

4.When Are Sinus Cysts Usually Asymptomatic?

Many people live with sinus retention cysts for years without any symptoms. These cysts:

• Are small

• Do not block sinus drainage

• Do not cause inflammation

Such cysts typically require no treatment, only observation.

 

5.Causes of Maxillary Sinus Retention Cysts

Several factors contribute to the formation of sinus cysts:

1. Allergies

• Chronic allergic rhinitis causes sinus lining inflammation

• Increased mucus production leads to gland blockage

2. Chronic or Recurrent Sinus Infections

• Long-standing sinusitis damages sinus lining

• Promotes mucus retention and cyst formation

3. Inflammation of Sinus Lining

• Persistent irritation from pollution, smoking, or infections

• Thickened mucosa blocks gland ducts

4. Dental Infections

• Infections of upper molar teeth may spread to the maxillary sinus

• Can contribute to cyst development

 

6.Sinus Cysts vs Nasal Polyps: Key Differences

Correct diagnosis is essential because treatment strategies differ.

 

7.Diagnosis of a Sinus Cyst

1. Medical History and Symptom Review

Your ENT specialist will assess:

• Duration of symptoms

• Recurrent infections

• Allergy history

• Dental complaints

2. Imaging Studies

CT Scan of Paranasal Sinuses (Gold Standard)

• Clearly shows size, shape, and location

• Differentiates cysts from polyps or tumors

MRI (Selected Cases)

• Used if soft tissue differentiation is needed

• Helpful when diagnosis is uncertain

3. Nasal Endoscopy

• Thin camera inserted through the nose

• Evaluates nasal cavity and sinus drainage pathways

 

8.Treatment Options for Sinus Retention Cysts

Treatment depends on symptoms, cyst size, and overall sinus health.

1. Observation and Monitoring

Recommended when:

• Cyst is small

• No significant symptoms

• Found incidentally

Management includes:

• Periodic follow-up

• Repeat imaging if symptoms develop

 

2. Medical Management

Used for symptom control, especially when inflammation is present.

Common Medications:

• Saline nasal sprays or rinses – improve sinus drainage

• Intranasal corticosteroid sprays – reduce inflammation

• Antihistamines – helpful in allergy-related cases

• Decongestants – short-term relief only

⚠️ Medications do not remove the cyst, but help reduce symptoms.

 

3. Surgical Treatment

Indicated when:

• Persistent facial pain

• Recurrent infections

• Large cyst causing obstruction

• Failed medical treatment

 

9.Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (ESS)

ESS is the preferred surgical approach for symptomatic sinus cysts.

How It Works:

• Performed through the nostrils

• No external cuts

• Endoscope guides precise removal of cyst

• Restores normal sinus drainage

Benefits of ESS:

• Minimally invasive

• Faster recovery

• Less pain and bleeding

• Lower recurrence risk

• Improved sinus ventilation

Most patients return to normal activities within a few days to a week.

 

10.Post-Treatment Care and Recovery

After Surgery:

• Follow ENT instructions strictly

• Use prescribed nasal sprays

• Avoid nose blowing initially

• Attend follow-up visits

Pain Management:

• Mild pain managed with medications

• Nasal congestion improves gradually

Healing Timeline:

• Initial recovery: 1–2 weeks

• Complete healing: 4–6 weeks

 

11.Preventing Future Sinus Problems

While cysts cannot always be prevented, these steps reduce risk:

• Regular saline nasal rinses

• Control allergies effectively

• Treat sinus infections early

• Maintain dental hygiene

• Avoid smoking and air pollution

• Stay hydrated

 

12.When Should You See an ENT Specialist?

Seek professional evaluation if you experience:

• Persistent facial pain or pressure

• Chronic nasal blockage

• Recurrent sinus infections

• Postnasal drip lasting weeks

• Reduced sense of smell

• Frequent headaches linked to sinuses

Early diagnosis prevents complications and improves outcomes.

 

13.Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are sinus cysts dangerous?

No. They are benign and non-cancerous.

Can a sinus cyst turn into cancer?

No evidence supports malignant transformation.

Can sinus cysts disappear on their own?

Yes, some may shrink or resolve spontaneously.

Do all sinus cysts need surgery?

No. Only symptomatic or large cysts require surgery.

 

14.Conclusion

Maxillary sinus retention cysts are common, benign, and often harmless, but they can cause symptoms such as facial pain, headaches, nasal congestion, and recurrent sinus infections in some individuals. Understanding their symptoms, causes, and treatment options empowers patients to seek timely care.

With accurate diagnosis and appropriate management—ranging from observation to minimally invasive surgery—most people experience excellent outcomes and long-term relief.

If sinus symptoms persist or affect your quality of life, consulting an ENT specialist is the best step toward healthier breathing and improved well-being.

Disclaimer:

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