How to Manage Nasal Allergies
Nasal blockage caused by allergies can be frustrating and disruptive to daily life, but there are effective strategies for managing and alleviating these symptoms. By understanding triggers and implementing targeted interventions, you can breathe easier and enjoy greater comfort. Here we hope to give you an understanding of this condition with practical tips and techniques for managing nasal obstruction due to allergies.
What are the sinuses and why are they important?
Sinuses are air-filled cavities located within the bones of the face and skull. They are lined with mucous membranes and play a crucial role in humidifying and filtering the air we breathe, as well as producing mucus to keep the nasal passages moist and trap foreign particles. Most of us have four pairs of sinuses as shown in the image below.
Understanding the Diagnosis and Management of Sinusitis with or without nasal polyps
Sinusitis refers to inflammation of the paranasal sinuses, which are air-filled cavities located within the bones of the face and skull. This inflammation can result from various factors, including viral or bacterial infections, allergies, structural abnormalities, or immune system dysfunction. It can cause symptoms such as nasal congestion or blockage, nasal discharge, facial pain and reduction or loss in sense of smell. It is a very common condition affecting up to 10% of the population and can significantly impact upon your quality of life. Acute Sinusitis typically lasts less than 12 weeks and is often preceded by an upper respiratory tract infection (often starting as a cold or cough) whilst Chronic Sinusitis persists for 12 weeks or longer and may be associated with underlying conditions such as allergies or nasal polyps (these are non-cancerous growths arising in the lining of your nose due to inflammation).
Surgical options for structural nasal obstruction: Inferior turbinate reduction
Surgical options for structural nasal obstruction: Septoplasty
Surgical options for structural nasal obstruction: Functional Septorhinoplasty
Understanding Loss or Reduction in Sense of Smell
Your sense of smell (also known as olfaction), plays a vital role in your daily life, allowing you to experience the aroma of various foods and environments, but also to detect potential dangers such as smoke and gas. When your sense of smell is compromised, it can significantly impact your quality of life. There are various different terms for disturbances in sense of smell, most commonly anosmia (a complete loss in sense of smell) and hyposmia (a reduction in sense of smell).
An Overview of Nosebleeds
Nosebleeds, medically termed epistaxis, are a common occurrence that can affect adults and children. They can range from a minor inconvenience to a more serious issue requiring medical attention. We are aware that they can impact upon your quality of life as they are unpredictable and can affect your confidence. While they may seem alarming, most nosebleeds can be managed effectively with simple measures. Here we aim to provide with you an insight into the causes, and potential management options.
Sinus Surgery and what to expect
With advances in technology, we are now able to perform most surgery of the sinuses comprehensively without causing external scarring. Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (ESS), or commonly known as Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS) is this minimally invasive technique where we use an endoscope - a thin tube with a light and camera at the end. This tool allows us to see inside your sinuses without making large incisions on your face. We also commonly perform a variation in sinus surgery, known as balloon sinuplasty. This is a newer minimally invasive procedure used to treat sinus disease. Here, a small tube with a balloon is inserted into the blocked sinus cavity and inflated to widen the passage, promoting drainage and relieving symptoms. The surgery is usually performed under general anaesthesia (when you will be asleep), although in certain selected cases this may be performed under local anaesthesia (when you will be awake). We will be able to discuss both options in clinic.
Nasal Blockage. What are the common causes?
Experiencing a blocked nose (nasal obstruction or congestion) can be frustrating and uncomfortable, impacting your ability to breathe freely and enjoy daily activities. Here we have tried to provide with you an insight into the various factors that can contribute to a blocked nose.