Sinusitis and Other Nasal Conditions

Irritants in the air we breathe can lead to inflammation inside the nose. This inflammation can lead to stuffy nose, drippy nose, itchy nose, sneezing, and postnasal drip. If medications do not improve these symptoms, further workup with allergy testing can help determine if allergy shots would be beneficial.

When the nose becomes inflamed, the inflammation can extend into the sinuses causing sinusitis. Symptoms of sinusitis include stuffy nose, thick nasal mucus, postnasal drainage, facial pressure, and a decreased sense of smell. If medications do not improve these symptoms, further workup with a CT scan can help determine if endoscopic sinus surgery would be beneficial.

The inside of the nose is filled with a septum in the middle and turbinates on each side which act as air filters.  If the septum is crooked (deviated) or the turbinates are swollen (hypertrophy), air will not flow freely through the nose which leads to nasal obstruction. If nasal sprays do not improve this symptom, surgery to straighten your deviated septum (septoplasty) and shrink your turbinates (turbinate reduction) can be beneficial.

Our nasal lining is very thin and contains large blood vessels under the surface. When this lining becomes irritated, the vessels can rupture leading to bleeding. Many times, pinching your nostrils and leaning your head forward can resolve the bleeding. If this doesn’t control the bleed, seeking medical help becomes necessary.