Nose disorders

Nose disorders encompass a wide range of medical conditions that affect the nose, a central feature of the human face responsible for the sense of smell and as a primary pathway for respiration. These disorders can vary greatly in their severity and impact on quality of life, ranging from minor nuisances to serious health concerns. This article provides an overview of common nose disorders, their symptoms, causes, and treatments.

Common Nose Disorders

Allergic Rhinitis

Allergic Rhinitis is an inflammation of the nasal passages, usually caused by an allergic reaction to pollen, dust, mold, or animal dander. Symptoms include sneezing, congestion, runny nose, and itchy or watery eyes. Treatment often involves antihistamines, nasal corticosteroids, and avoiding known allergens.

Sinusitis

Sinusitis refers to the inflammation of the sinuses, which are air-filled cavities around the nasal passages. It can be acute or chronic and is often caused by infections, allergies, or structural issues in the nose. Symptoms include facial pain, nasal congestion, reduced sense of smell, and a thick, colored nasal discharge. Treatment options include antibiotics for bacterial infections, nasal corticosteroids, and saline nasal irrigation.

Nasal Polyps

Nasal Polyps are noncancerous growths on the lining of the nasal passages or sinuses. They can cause nasal blockage, runny nose, sneezing, and a reduced sense of smell. The exact cause of nasal polyps is unknown, but they are often associated with chronic inflammation. Treatment may involve corticosteroids, surgery, or both.

Deviated Septum

A Deviated Septum occurs when the thin wall between the nasal passages is displaced to one side, which can significantly block one side of the nose. This condition can cause difficulty breathing, nasal congestion, and frequent sinus infections. Treatment options include nasal steroid sprays, decongestants, or a surgical procedure known as septoplasty.

Epistaxis

Epistaxis, or nosebleed, is a common condition that involves bleeding from the inside of the nose. It can be caused by dry air, picking the nose, injury, or blood thinners. Most nosebleeds are minor and can be managed at home by pinching the nose and leaning forward. Persistent or severe nosebleeds may require medical attention.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis of nose disorders typically involves a physical examination and may include imaging tests such as X-rays or CT scans, allergy testing, or nasal endoscopy. Treatment varies widely depending on the specific disorder and its severity but may include medication, lifestyle changes, or surgery.

Prevention

Preventive measures for nose disorders include avoiding known allergens, using a humidifier to keep nasal passages moist, practicing good hygiene, and avoiding nasal irritants such as tobacco smoke.

Glossary

• Allergic fungal sinusitis - A sinus infection caused by an allergic reaction to fungi in the environment, leading to sinus blockage and polyp development.
• Chronic atrophic rhinitis - A long-term condition characterized by the thinning of the nose's mucous membranes, leading to a dry and crusty nasal cavity, often with a foul odor.
• Concha bullosa - The pneumatization (air-filled cavity) of the nasal concha, typically the middle turbinate, which can lead to nasal obstruction and sinusitis.
• Empty nose syndrome - A rare and controversial condition believed to occur after nasal surgery, resulting in a sensation of insufficient airflow despite physically open nasal passages.
• Fungal sinusitis - An inflammation of the sinuses caused by a fungal infection, which can be classified as invasive or non-invasive depending on the fungus's behavior.
• Inverted papilloma - A benign but locally aggressive tumor that originates in the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses, known for its potential to recur and undergo malignant transformation.
• Nasal polyp - Benign growths in the lining of the nasal passages or sinuses, often associated with chronic inflammation and leading to symptoms like nasal congestion and reduced sense of smell.
• Nasal septal abscess - An accumulation of pus between the layers of the nasal septum, often resulting from trauma or infection, which can cause nasal obstruction and severe pain.
• Nasal septal hematoma - A collection of blood within the septum of the nose, usually caused by injury, leading to pressure, pain, and potential damage if not treated promptly.
• Nasal septum deviation - A condition where the nasal septum, the cartilage and bone dividing the nasal cavity, is significantly off center, causing breathing difficulties.
• Nasal septum perforation - A hole in the nasal septum, which can result from trauma, surgery, drug use, or certain medical conditions, leading to symptoms like nasal whistling.
• Nasal vestibulitis - Inflammation of the nasal vestibule, often due to infection, which can cause crusting, discomfort, and sometimes nasal sores.
• Nonallergic rhinitis - A set of symptoms resembling an allergy but not caused by allergens, including chronic sneezing, congestion, and nasal drip, triggered by factors like weather changes, foods, or chemicals.
• Nosebleed (Epistaxis) - The acute bleeding from the nostril, nasal cavity, or nasopharynx, ranging from minor to severe, often caused by dry air, trauma, or medical conditions.
• Post-nasal drip - The sensation of mucus accumulation in the back of the throat or nose, often resulting from rhinitis or sinusitis, leading to coughing and throat clearing.
• Rhinitis medicamentosa - A condition of rebound nasal congestion brought on by extended use of topical decongestants, leading to a cycle of worsening congestion and increased decongestant use.
• Rhinitis - Inflammation of the nasal mucous membrane, causing runny nose, sneezing, and congestion, which can be allergic or nonallergic.
• Rhinolith - A nasal stone formed by the accumulation of mineral salts around a foreign body in the nasal cavity, causing obstruction and discharge.
• Rhinophyma - A subtype of rosacea leading to a large, bulbous, and red nose, often associated with thickened skin and enlarged pores, most common in men.
• Rhinorrhea - The excessive discharge of a thin and clear nasal fluid, commonly known as a runny nose, which can be symptomatic of numerous conditions.
• Saddle nose deformity - A condition where the bridge of the nose collapses, often due to trauma, infection, or autoimmune diseases, leading to a flat and broad nasal appearance.
• Septorhinoplasty - A surgical procedure to correct problems with the nasal septum and the external structure of the nose, improving both function and appearance.
• Sinusitis - Inflammation or swelling of the tissue lining the sinuses, leading to infection, blockage, and pain, often following a cold or triggered by allergies.
• Turbinates hypertrophy - The enlargement of the turbinates, structures within the nose that cleanse and humidify air, causing nasal obstruction and breathing difficulties.
• Woodruff's plexus - A network of veins in the posterior part of the nasal cavity, which can be a site of significant nosebleeds.