What are the most common nose problems? The nose works as a filter to block germs, dust, and irritants. Furthermore, it moistens and warms the air reaching your lungs, so it does not dry out. Another reason why the nose is an important part of the body is that it includes nerve cells responsible for the smell. So, when your nose is suffering from a problem, your entire body will show symptoms.
For instance, if you have a common cold, you will feel difficulty breathing, sleeping, and will generally feel uncomfortable. Therefore, it is essential to keep your nasal tract functioning properly. Here are some problems that you might develop other than the common cold:
- The condition nasal polyps refer to the development of soft
- In deviated septum, your nasal cavity divides into two due to walls shifting.
- Rhinitis is a condition in which you suffer from sinuses and nose inflammation. Your allergies trigger this condition.
- Nosebleeds
- Nasal fractures or broken nose
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1. Sinusitis
Sinusitis occurs on the lining of the sinuses, which leads to inflammation. Mostly, a viral infection triggers this condition. The sinuses are small cavities behind your forehead and cheekbones. These air-filled cavities produce mucus that drains into your nose. There are small channels working as a passage for mucus from sinuses to the nasal cavities. You develop sinusitis when the sinus lining starts to swell, causing blockage to the channels.
Sinusitis can be of two types; acute sinusitis and chronic sinusitis. Below you will find some common symptoms of both types of sinusitis:
Acute Sinusitis
- Stuffed-up nose
- Facial pressure or pain
- Loss of smell
- Runny nose
- Congestion or cough
- Bad breath
- Fever
- Dental pain
- Fatigue
Chronic Sinusitis
- You will feel fullness or congestion in your face
- Development of pus in the nasal cavity
- Discolored postnasal drainage or runny nose
- Fever
- Nasal blockage or nasal obstruction
- Tiredness
- Dental pain
- Bad breathe
The symptoms of sinusitis worsen with time. Therefore, you need to visit a doctor if you notice any of the above symptoms.
2. Nasal and Sinus Polyps
Nasal polyps are the noncancerous growth in the sinuses or nasal passages. This teardrop or grape-like hanging of lining is painless and soft. Nasal polyps grow from chronic inflammation and cause various disorders, including allergies, asthma, drug sensitivity, and other immune disorders.
You will not experience any symptoms when the nasal polyps are small in size. However, when it starts to grow, it blocks the nasal cavity and leads to loss of smell, breathing problems, and other infections. Even though nasal polyps are common in adults, anyone can develop this condition.
Normally, medication can eliminate or shrink the nasal polyps. But if the condition is severe, you need to undergo surgery for the removal. However, it is possible that nasal polyps return after the surgery.
3. Smell and Taste Disorder
There are numerous conditions that cause distortion of taste, odor, and flavor. You will develop a bad taste or odor or find it hard to detect smell or taste. These conditions will affect your quality of life. Different underlying diseases can develop smell and taste disorders. Here are some common small and taste diseases:
- Hyposmia is a condition that reduces your ability to smell
- When you suffer from Ageusia, you will not be able to taste.
- In Hypogeusia, your ability to feel the flavors reduces.
- With Anosmia, you will not be able to smell.
When you are unable to smell or taste, you develop the following health problems:
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- Poor nutrition
- High blood pressure
- Nervous system disorder including multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer disease, and Parkinson disease
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4. Nasal Valve Collapse
Your nasal valve collapses when it becomes weak after surgery or trauma. This valve is responsible for limiting the airflow. A nasal valve is available in the lower part of the nose. As this valve is already narrow, additional air pressure can affect its function, blocking the nasal airway. Here are some symptoms of nasal valve collapse:
- Congestion
- Nasal bleeding
- Snoring
- Having problems breathing from the nose
- Blockage of the nasal passage
Common Nose Problems: Conclusion
Complications due to nose problems can lead to various conditions, disorders, and diseases. The symptoms of this condition can be progressive, serious, and life-threatening. Most people who develop chronic diseases need immediate attention as their complications can worsen over time. Therefore, it is necessary to consult a health care provider about your condition.
If you experience the above symptoms or undergo some nose trauma, you can consult with our highly experienced ENT surgeon, Dr. Michael C. Burnett. At Ear, Nose and Throat of New York, we ensure that you receive the best treatment for your nose problems.
For appointments, you can contact us at 212-867-4813.
Sources & Related Links:
https://www.ohsu.edu/ent/common-disorders-nose-and-sinuses
https://medlineplus.gov/noseinjuriesanddisorders.html
https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/ears-nose-and-throat/sinusitis
https://www.webmd.com/allergies/sinusitis-and-sinus-infection
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/nasal-polyps/symptoms-causes/syc-20351888
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/smell-and-taste-disorders
