Our nose and sinuses are vital to your health, responsible for filtering the air you breathe and providing your sense of smell. However, they can also be susceptible to various disorders and issues. These nasal passages and sinus structures not only humidify and filter the air but also play a key role in the olfactory sense. Problems in these areas can result in discomfort, breathing challenges, and sometimes serious health concerns. To know more about nose-related issues, we reached out to Dr Naseeruddin, MS ENT, Ent, Head and Neck surgeon at Apollo Spectra Hospitals, Hyderabad. Read on as he sheds lights on four critical nasal issues and how to manage them.
Chronic Sinusitis
“Sinusitis, or rhinosinusitis, is an inflammation of the paranasal sinuses, the hollow spaces in the skull around the nasal cavity. This condition arises when the sinus passages become blocked, trapping mucus and causing bacterial or viral infections. If symptoms last for over 12 weeks despite treatment efforts, the condition is classified as chronic sinusitis. Symptoms include nasal congestion, face discomfort or pressure, a loss of smell, and nasal discharge. Infections, allergies, nasal polyps, and a deviated septum are all possible causes of sinuses,” explains Dr Naseeruddin.
Medical therapy is generally the first step in management. Saline nasal irrigation can assist in removing mucus and allergies. Nasal corticosteroids are frequently used to relieve inflammation. Bacterial infections can be treated with antibiotics. When these therapies are ineffective, a healthcare physician may suggest endoscopic sinus surgery to enhance sinus outflow.
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Nasal Polyps
Nasal polyps are painless, benign growths that develop in the mucosa, the thin, soft tissue lining the nasal and sinus passages. According to Dr Naseeruddin, “They typically occur on both sides of the nose. Although small polyps might not cause any symptoms, larger ones can become irritated and swollen, making it difficult to breathe through the nose. As they grow, they can lead to a stuffy and runny nose, headaches, loss of taste and smell, and nosebleeds. While the particular cause is not always known, they are frequently linked to asthma, aspirin sensitivity, and chronic sinusitis.”
Medications that shrink polyps and reduce inflammation are used as part of the initial therapy. Nasal corticosteroid sprays are frequently the initial line of therapy. If they are unsuccessful, oral or injectable steroids might be given for a limited time. If medicine does not relieve the symptoms, endoscopic surgery to remove the polyps may be required. However, polyps might return, necessitating continuing care.
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Deviated Septum
“A deviated nasal septum occurs when the nasal septum, which is the bone and cartilage that separates the nasal cavity, is considerably off-centre. This might result in breathing difficulty, nasal congestion, and chronic sinusitis,” defines Dr Naseeruddin. Many people have some degree of septal deviation, but treatment is only required if the symptoms are severe.
Treatments for mild instances include decongestants, antihistamines, and nasal corticosteroid sprays. Serious instances may necessitate surgical intervention. Septoplasty is a surgical technique that straightens the septum, improving airflow and relieving associated symptoms.
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Allergic Rhinitis
Allergic rhinitis, often known as hay fever, is an allergic response to airborne particles such as pollen, dust mites, or pet dander. Sneezing, itching, nasal congestion, and a runny nose are all common symptoms. It can also worsen problems such as chronic sinusitis and nasal polyps.
Talking about effective management, Dr Naseeruddin quotes, “It begins with identifying and avoiding allergies. Antihistamines, nasal corticosteroids, and decongestants are all important medications for relieving symptoms and reducing inflammation. In certain circumstances, an immunotherapy that is allergy injections can assist in desensitising the immune system to particular allergens, offering long-lasting relief.”
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“A thorough treatment approach is crucial for individuals dealing with concurrent conditions like chronic sinusitis with nasal polyps or allergic rhinitis with a deviated septum. It's essential to address all contributing factors comprehensively. For instance, effectively managing allergies can decrease inflammation and the risk of nasal polyp formation, while correcting a deviated septum can improve the effectiveness of treatments for chronic sinusitis,” he adds.
In addition to medical and surgical interventions, lifestyle adjustments can significantly impact symptom management. Maintaining a balanced diet, adequate hydration, and using a humidifier to keep nasal passages moist can provide relief. Avoiding smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke is also important, as it can irritate nasal passages and worsen symptoms.
Final Word
Chronic sinusitis, nasal polyps, deviated septum, and allergic rhinitis are all interconnected disorders that require a multifaceted strategy to effectively manage. Individuals suffering from these illnesses can benefit significantly from a mix of medicinal therapies, surgical procedures, and lifestyle changes. Consultation with healthcare specialists for developing a specific treatment plan is critical for best results.