Nose disorders affect millions of people and cause pain, breathing difficulties, fatigue, headache, and loss of smell, among other symptoms. These disorders can cause discomfort, and in severe cases, heavy medication may be needed to make the situation better. One of the most common nose problems is sinusitis, and it afflicts about 37 million people every year.
There are many disorders related to the nose; some are treatable, some are not. However, you do not have to live with the discomfort as treatments can ease these disorders. ENT specialists have expertise in this area, and their skills help them understand the problems well to diagnose and treat them.
Following are some of the most common nose and sinuses disorders:
- Allergic rhinitis.
- Cerebral spinal fluid leaks.
- Chronic sinusitis with polyps
- Chronic sinusitis without polyps.
- Infections.
- Deviated septums.
1- Allergic Rhinitis
Allergic rhinitis is an inflammatory nose condition in which inflammation is caused inside the nose linings by an allergen. Usually, these allergens are dust, mold, pollen, and flakes of skin from house pets. It is a widespread nose problem, and it has affected every 1 out of 5 people globally.
Its duration depends on its nature. For instance, allergic rhinitis can come seasonally, whereas non-allergic rhinitis can last all year long. Symptoms of allergic rhinitis may include congestion or nasal stuffiness, sneezing, runny nose, itchy nose, throat, eyes, headaches, sinus discomfort, and dark circles. Increased mucus in the nose and throat is also a sign of this condition. Sometimes, fatigue and tiredness are also treated as a sign.
2- Cerebrospinal Fluid Leaks
Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is a clear fluid that envelope the brain and spinal cord. It protects the brain and spinal cord from injury and serves as the waste removal system for the brain. It is produced continuously in areas of the brain called ventricles and is absorbed by the bloodstream. A cerebrospinal fluid leak is hazardous and potentially life-threatening because it can lead to meningitis.
If you have a CFS leak, you should consult your sinus specialist promptly so that you can start proper treatment.
3- Chronic Sinusitis with Polyps
Chronic sinusitis with polyps is an infection of the sinuses that persists for more than 12 weeks or more. It is associated with nasal polyps. These polyps make congestion that can make breathing difficult. It can be treated with medications, but severe cases need to be addressed with surgery to remove the polyps.
4- Chronic Sinusitis without Polyps
Chronic sinusitis without polyps (CRSsNP) is more common than chronic sinusitis with polyps. It is an inflammatory disease of the paranasal sinuses lasting for about 12 weeks. It is identified by two or more sinus symptoms; nasal discharge and facial pressure. Patients may also sense a loss of smell in this condition.
5- Infections
Sinus infections characterize common nose infections. It occurs when your nasal cavities become inflamed, infected, and swollen. Generally, it is caused by a virus and often continues even after other upper respiratory symptoms have faded. Moreover, in some cases, fungus and bacteria may also cause a sinus infection.
6- Deviated Septums
It is a nose condition in which the nasal septum is significantly off center or crooked. A nasal septum the bone and cartilage that divide the nasal cavity of the nose in half. Deviated septums can make it relatively harder to breathe properly. Most of the people have imbalance in the size of their breathing canal and may consider it a deviated septum. However, only a skilled professional can assure you about this. Common symptoms of a deviated septum include nasal congestion, sleep apnea, and sinusitis.
7- Smell & Taste Disorder
Smell and taste disorder is nose problem that can have a significant impact on quality of life. About 2 million adults worldwide are estimated for this disorder every year, but it is believed many more cases go unregistered. Around 80% of the taste comes from olfactory or smell input. Therefore, loss of smell is characterized as loss of taste too. Chronic rhinosinusitis, polyps, allergic rhinitis, neurological disorders, upper respiratory infection, trauma, and tumors can also cause smell and taste disorders.
If you want to know more information or get professional help, you can book an appointment with the best ENT specialists in Karachi through Marham.
