The nose is the portal to the respiratory system. It warms, filters and moistens the air. This part of the body is constantly assaulted with all manner of objectionable, acrid, irritating and noxious in haled material, especially in the Raritan Valley. Is it no wonder that our noses are endlessly inflamed, runny or stuffed?
What is Rhinitis?
When the nose is inflamed, for whatever reason, we call it rhinitis. Rhin- meaning nose(that how the rhinoceros got its name!); -itis meaning sick or inflamed. Though allergic rhinitis classically means rhinitis due to allergens (pollen, house dust, etc.), we often use the term to describe generalized rhinitis due to chronic irritation.
What is Sinusitis?
The sinuses are large air filled cavities in the head (above, below and between the eyes). They are connected by a few tiny holes to the nose. Inflammation can spread from the nose into the sinuses, followed by fluid build up and then bacterial infection.
Treatment of these conditions involves:
- Methods to reduce chronic inflammation
- Remove household allergens
- Nasal steroids
- Antihistamines
- Cromolyn
- Methods to promote drainage of excessive mucus
- Nasal irrigation
- Decongestants
- Mucolytie drugs
- Surgical drainage
- Antibiotics if infection develops
