Our ears, nose, and throat work together to keep us healthy. They are closely linked to our immune system and are often the first line of defense against infection. Our ears, nose, and throat are devised of different components that help us capture these foreign bodies. Sometimes they can become infected or cause us issues due to their close ties with the immune system.
Allergies and sinus issues affect between 10% and 30% of the population worldwide. But, even though thousands experience problems, many aren't familiar with the different terminology.
Nose and Sinus Terms You Should Know
Balloon Sinuplasty
Balloon sinuplasty is a sinus surgery procedure. It's a less invasive option to help patients find relief from chronic sinusitis. The operation is performed under local anesthesia by an ENT. A flexible tube with a balloon is inserted into the sinus cavity and inflated. The gentle pressure opens the cavity allowing the excess mucus and pus to drain.
Nasal Congestion/Obstruction
Nasal congestion is when the lining of the nose becomes inflamed or blocked by the production of excess mucus. Nasal congestion has many causes. The most common being allergies or sinusitis. Nasal obstruction is similar but can be viewed differently. Obstructions could be a nasal polyp, inflamed turbinates, or deviated septum. All issues can "obstruct" the nasal passage and reduce airflow.
Nasal Drainage
Glands throughout the body produce mucus to help fight off bacteria and keep our bodies healthy. Our nose produces about a quart of it a day. Often the drainage mixes with our saliva down the back of our throats where it is swallowed. Excess mucus coming out of the nose is a "runny nose." Excess mucus that runs down the back of the throat is called postnasal drip. Anything from allergies to cold weather can increase mucus production.
Sinus Infections
You have two kinds of sinus infections: acute sinusitis and chronic. A cold or the flu typically accompanies acute sinus infections. The virus can linger in the system, causing inflammation. Frequent allergy sufferers experience conditions like chronic sinusitis. Chronic conditions last for six weeks, are accompanied by a low-grade fever and are immune to most treatments.
Nasal Polyps
A soft, painless growth inside the nose is called a nasal polyp. They hang down like teardrops on the nose lining. Some polyps don't cause any symptoms. However, they can grow large enough to obstruct airflow. Polyp growth can be brought on by allergies, infection, chronic inflammation, and more. Some medications can reduce their size; otherwise, they can be surgically removed.
Allergic Rhinitis
Commonly referred to as "hay fever," allergic rhinitis is a group of symptoms affecting the nose. Don't let the term confuse you. You don't have to be exposed to hay or have a fever. It's merely a term that refers to your body overreacting to allergens. Dust mites, mold, pollen, and grass can cause hay fever.
Allergic Fungal Sinusitis
Allergic Fungal Sinusitis is a type of fungal infection occurring in the sinuses. It can happen at any age and happens after breathing in the fungus. The sinuses begin to inflame due to an allergic response. Thick mucus is produced that blocks the infected sinus.
Deviated Septum
A deviated septum refers to the misalignment of the partition that separates your nose. Most deviated septums are formed at birth when the baby's nose is pressed against the birthing cavity. Or, it can be a result of an injury to the face. A broken nose would be a good example. Deviated septums range from mild to severe. Surgery is effective at treating conditions that obstruct the air passages.
Enlarged Turbinates
You have three turbinates lining each side of the nose. They humidify and warm the air we breathe. Allergic responses can inflame the turbinates. They can become so large they make it challenging to breathe in through one or both sides of the nose. Medications are excellent at reducing the swelling. If that doesn't work, ENTs will recommend turbinate reduction.
Inverted Papilloma
Inverted papilloma is a benign tumor inside the nasal cavity or possibly the paranasal sinuses. While many of these growths start benign, they can turn to malignant tumors and should be treated with care. Most patients will complain of chronic sinusitis, headaches, postnasal drip, and congestion. Your ENT will review your symptoms and make a diagnosis.
Nosebleeds (Epistaxis)
A nosebleed is an acute hemorrhage in the nasal cavity. The blood vessels inside the nose are very close to the surface. When a blood vessel is damaged, it can become problematic as the scabs necessary for healing are easily dislodged. Dry heat/air can dry out the nose and cause a nosebleed. Additionally, colds, sinusitis, or vigorous nose blowing break blood vessels as well. Most nosebleeds can be treated at home. Frequent issues should be brought up to your ENT.
If you are suffering from sinus and allergy related symptoms, contact OAT today to set up an appointment.
