Nasal Disorders and Treatment Methods

Post Date: 6/23/2023

 

Nasal disorders are a general term referring to conditions where the nose is unable to perform its functions, such as smelling, facilitating respiration, and shaping the character of the voice.

The human nose comes into contact with an average of 9,000 liters of air per day, adapting and humidifying it according to the body's temperature. Additionally, it acts as a filter by capturing and removing dust particles that enter through the nasal passages, ensuring that quality air reaches the lungs. However, problems such as infections, structural abnormalities, discharge, and allergies can hinder these functions, significantly impacting an individual's quality of life.

Prof. Dr. Selçuk İnanlı, combining innovative methods with years of accumulated experience, meticulously treats all nasal disorders and provides patients with comfortable healing.

What Are the Causes of Nasal Disorders?

Nasal diseases can develop due to various reasons and can occur regardless of age or gender. If these conditions are not diagnosed and treated early, they can greatly affect a person's daily life. The most commonly encountered causes are listed below:

  • Allergies
  • Infections
  • Deviated septum
  • Polyps
  • Epistaxis (nosebleeds)

Common Nasal Diseases and Their Treatments

When nasal function is impaired, it directly affects people's social lives. A nose that is aesthetically unsatisfactory can lead to self-confidence issues. Another cause of nasal disorders is accidents, which can result in the aforementioned problems. The following are frequently encountered nasal disorders and their treatment methods:

1) Sinusitis

Sinusitis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the sinuses, which are air-filled cavities located in the facial bones and open into the nasal cavity. These cavities help regulate the airflow within the nose and moisturize the nasal passages. Sinusitis typically develops as a result of upper respiratory tract infections. Conditions like the common cold, flu, or allergic reactions can cause inflammation of the sinuses. Inflammation leads to swelling of the sinuses and blockage of the passages that connect them to the nasal cavity, resulting in sinusitis symptoms.

Symptoms of sinusitis include facial pain, headache, nasal congestion, nasal discharge, sensitivity around the face and eyes, cough, fatigue, and fever. The condition is generally classified as acute or chronic. Acute sinusitis is a short-term and sudden-onset condition, while chronic sinusitis refers to long-lasting and recurring inflammation.

The treatment of sinusitis aims to control the infection. For this purpose, medications such as nasal drops, sprays, antibiotics, pain relievers, and decongestants may be prescribed. Home remedies such as rest, adequate fluid intake, nasal irrigation, and steam inhalation can also help alleviate symptoms. If the condition becomes severe or chronic, your doctor may consider different treatment options, including sinus drainage, sinus irrigation, corticosteroid nasal sprays, or sinus surgery.

2) Nosebleeds

Nosebleeds, also known as epistaxis in medical terms, are bleeding from the blood vessels inside the nose. This condition typically occurs as bleeding from one or both nostrils. The blood vessels in the nose are quite delicate and can be damaged for various reasons. The most common cause of nosebleeds is the drying and cracking of the blood vessels inside the nose. Other factors that can lead to nosebleeds include nasal trauma, blows to the nose, foreign objects in the nose, nasal congestion, allergies, inflammatory conditions in the nose, hypertension, bleeding disorders, hormonal changes, and side effects of certain medications.

While nosebleeds are not usually a serious health problem, they can occasionally require medical intervention. There are measures that can be taken to stop mild bleeding. You can gently tilt your head forward, firmly pinch one or both nostrils together, and apply gentle pressure to the bridge of the nose. Applying a cold compress or using moisturizing gels inside the nose can also help stop the bleeding. It is important to consult a healthcare professional before performing these practices.

3) Allergic Rhinitis

Allergic rhinitis is a health condition characterized by the adverse reaction of the nasal mucosa to allergens. It is commonly referred to as seasonal or year-round allergies. It usually occurs as a result of a reaction to environmental factors such as pollen, dust mites, mold spores, and animal dander.

Symptoms of allergic rhinitis include nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, nasal itching, itchy and watery eyes, redness of the eyes, throat itching, coughing, mild headache, and fatigue. These symptoms are often more pronounced during seasonal allergies when pollen is abundant in the spring and summer. However, some individuals may experience symptoms throughout the year.

It is essential to consult a healthcare professional for the diagnosis and alleviation of this condition. The doctor will assess the severity and duration of symptoms, perform a physical examination, and evaluate reactions to allergens through methods such as skin tests. The treatment generally focuses on relieving symptoms and reducing exposure to allergens. Antihistamines, nasal sprays (containing steroids or antihistamines), and nasal drops are often recommended as treatment options.

Additionally, making adjustments in one's home to avoid allergenic environments, staying away from allergens, practicing regular cleaning, and using protective covers for mattresses and pillows are among the actions that can be taken.

4) Polyps

Nasal polyps are soft, tumor-like growths that develop in the nose or sinus cavities. These polyps form as a result of chronic inflammation of the nasal mucosa. They are typically gray or yellow in color, filled with fluid, and have a jelly-like consistency. As they grow in the nasal cavity or sinuses, they can cause symptoms such as nasal congestion, runny nose, changes in voice, loss of smell, headaches, facial pain, recurrent sinus infections, coughing, and fatigue. In some cases, larger polyps can obstruct the airways and lead to respiratory problems like sleep apnea.

The exact cause of polyps is not fully understood, but they are often associated with inflammatory conditions such as chronic sinusitis, asthma, and allergic rhinitis. Constant irritation and inflammation of the nasal mucosa can contribute to the formation of polyps. Diagnosis is typically made by an ear, nose, and throat specialist. The specialist performs a comprehensive evaluation, and in some cases, polyp diagnosis is confirmed through endoscopic imaging tests. Computed tomography (CT) scans may also be used if necessary.

In the initial stages of treatment, nasal sprays (containing steroids) and oral corticosteroids may be used to reduce nasal congestion and control inflammation. However, these treatments may not completely eliminate the polyps. In such cases, if the polyps are large and causing significant discomfort, surgical intervention may be necessary. Polyps can be removed and sinus passages can be opened through a procedure called endoscopic sinus surgery. This surgery is an effective option for preventing their recurrence as well.

If you are experiencing any nasal disorders and seeking a safe and comfortable treatment environment, Prof. Dr. Selçuk İnanlı is waiting for you at his clinic. Contact us for detailed information about procedures and to schedule an appointment.

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