Eustachian Tube Problems – ENT Doctor | Ear and Tinnitus Specialist

The cause of any ear infection is some type of blockage of the Eustachian tube. Connecting the middle ear to the rear of the nose by the soft palate, this tube is just over an inch in length in adults. Tissues in the Eustachian tube may respond to stimuli inside of the nasal cavity, as is often the case when you have a cold or allergies that affect your ears.

• While these tubes are normally closed, a feeling of “fullness” in the ear can result if they are unable to open as needed
• A blocked tube creates an ideal environment for bacteria, which is just one of several potential problems that may involve the Eustachian tube

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Causes of Eustachian Tube Problems

E-tubes normally open to regular middle ear pressure, help with ventilation and ear fluid drainage, and prevent fluids from the throat and nose from getting into the middle ear. If these tubes aren’t functioning as expected, pressure imbalances and infections can result in symptoms that may include:

• Temporary ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
• Dizziness or vertigo
• Headaches
• Nausea or vomiting
• Headaches
• Popping and crackling sensations
• Mild hearing loss

Other than an upper respiratory infection due to the common cold, tube problems may be caused by chronic sinus infections and seasonal allergies. Some individuals have tubes locked in an open position, a condition known as patulous Eustachian tube (PET). Patients with PET often report persistent ear fullness and hear echoes or their own voice in the affected ear.

Eustachian tube problems are sometimes experienced because of post-nasal drainage that flows down the back of throat to the end point of the tubes. Children with infected, inflamed, or enlarged adenoids (lymph tissues) may have clogged tubes. Some people also experience tube problems due to:

• Damage to hair-like structures in Eustachian tubes (cilia) from smoking or secondhand smoke exposure
• Altitude changes
• Excessively small Eustachian tubes
• Skull base tumors (in rare cases)

How Do Childhood Ear Infections Affect Eustachian Tubes?

Children with upper respiratory infections often have ear infections because of bacteria that transfers from the nose to the middle ear. If ear infections become chronic, mucus may accumulate in Eustachian tubes. This makes it difficult for the ear to properly drain, which may result in higher-than-normal pressure in the middle ear. Sometimes this pressure causes eardrum deformities or ruptures.

Diagnoses

Issues involving Eustachian tubes are typically diagnosed with a physical exam and a detailed evaluation of the affected ear. Movements of the eardrum when air pressure is applied can be observed with a bulb syringe attached to an otoscope (instrument used to look inside of ears). A device called a tympanogram may be used to measure eardrum movement.

Diagnosis of Eardrum Ruptures

When there’s discharge from the affected ear, laboratory tests may be done to identify if there’s a bacterial infection in the middle ear. Diagnosis of damage to an eardrum involves examination of the ear that is done with a microscope or an otoscope. It may also involve a tuning fork evaluation to detect hearing loss. . The eardrum is sometimes further evaluated with tympanometry, a procedure involving the use of a device called a tympanometer that’s inserted into the ear canal to detect movement of the ear drum with changes in air pressure. Nearly all patients with a tympanic membrane perforation will benefit from a full audiological exam.

Treatment Options

Tube problems due to a cold or changes in altitude often go away with little or no treatment. If Eustachian tube problems are due to allergies, patients may benefit from aggressive efforts to manage allergies better. Patients with chronic allergies or sinus irritations causing ear problems are sometimes referred to an allergist for further treatment.

When ear infections are causing tube issues, antibiotics delivered orally or with ear drops or ventilation tubes to improve circulation may be recommended. Decongestants and nasal corticosteroids may be a beneficial solution for some people with occasional problems. PET-related issues might be treated with a special type of estrogen nasal spray.

When Is Surgery Recommended?

Surgery may become an option if abnormalities of the Eustachian tube are contributing to persistent and serious ear issues. A common procedure is the insertion of a pressure equalization tube into the eardrum to create a better pressure balance. This is often recommended for children. With a procedure known as a myringotomy, a small slit is made in the eardrum to drain fluid and create a temporary source of ventilation. The slit will heal on its own.

Problems with Eustachian tubes can be minimized by being cautious in situations where ear pressure is likely to change, as is often the case when traveling by airplane. Yawning, chewing gum, and making swallowing motions can help keep your e-tubes open in situations like this, as can gently blowing your nose. See your doctor about any lingering or recurrent ear infections. You may be referred to an ear, nose, and throat specialist if your problems may be related to some type of deformity or abnormality, or if an infection has caused issues with parts of your middle ear.

Eustachian tube dysfunction: Causes, symptoms, and treatment

Infections and blockages can disrupt the eustachian tubes, leading to discomfort and hearing problems. Any of these symptoms can count as eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD).

The eustachian tube runs from the middle ear to the back of the nose and throat. It helps drain fluid from the middle ear, which is the space behind the eardrum. Infection and blockages can disrupt this process and lead to complications.

In this article, we discuss the the symptoms, causes, and treatments for ETD

There are a few different causes of ETD, and certain factors may increase a person’s likelihood of developing it.

• The eustachian tubes help regulate ear pressure and drain excess fluid from the middle ear.
• When they are blocked, symptoms can include pain, popping sounds in the ears, or fluid in the ears.
• The treatment depends on the underlying cause.

A person can often easily manage ETD at home. However, persistent symptoms may require contacting a doctor for treatment.

The eustachian tubes are canals that run from the back of the nose and upper throat to the middle ear, helping keep the air pressure behind the eardrum the same as the pressure outside. They remain closed most of the time but will open as a person swallows, chews, or yawns.

Some people can have a condition that health experts refer to as patulous eustachian tube, where tubes stay open when they should be closed. This causes a person to experience autophony, which is when they can hear their own breathing and voice inside their head.

In addition, these canals are so tiny that blockages can happen for many reasons. Blocked eustachian tubes can cause discomfort and lead to hearing problems. Any of these symptoms can count as ETD.

ETD covers a variety of symptoms and has a range of potential causes. Season allergies and illnesses that create inflammation in the area, such as the flu or cold, are common causes of ETD.

Sinus infections can also trigger ETD, as a sinus infection causes the eustachian tubes to become inflamed or filled with mucus. More serious infections can cause ETD as well.

Moreover, ETD may stem from simple changes in altitude or air pressure. For instance, driving up a mountain or sitting in a plane can cause ETD. Even just riding the elevator in a tall building may be enough for some people to develop unpleasant symptoms.

It is common to experience ETD occasionally, but some people have symptoms more often than others.

Lifestyle risks

Lifestyle risks include smoking and carrying excess body weight.

Smoking can damage the delicate hairs in the throat and middle ear.

Carrying excess body weight can lead to fatty tissue deposits to form around the eustachian tubes, causing fluid buildup in the ear.

However, significant weight loss can also lead to dysfunction when fat buildup in the tubes decreases too quickly.

Engaging in certain activities may also put a person more at risk of pressure changes, which could trigger ETD symptoms. These activities include:

• hiking at high altitudes
• rock climbing
• skiing or snowboarding
• scuba diving

Medical risks

People with allergies may experience ETD more often, as allergies can cause increased mucus and congestion.

Children are also at higher risk of ETD, as their eustachian tubes are smaller and orient more horizontally than vertically. This makes the tubes more likely to become clogged by mucus or germs.

Furthermore, a child’s immune system is less able to fight off infections, as it is not fully developed. Children have more frequent colds and sinus infections, which are direct causes of ETD.

Enlarged adenoids can also cause eustachian tube obstruction and lead to bacterial growth, which can then result in ear infections.

The following medical conditions are risk factors as well:

• Cleft palate: It commonly affects children from birth and almost always leads to ETD.
• Trisomy 21: This is a type of Down syndrome that causes small and abnormally shaped tubes, poor muscle tone, and a decrease in the cartilage density within the tube.
• Generalized hypotonia: Also called poor muscle tone, this condition can occur for a number of reasons. It can impair the function of a muscle in the soft palate in the mouth and lead to a eustachian tube collapse.
• Laryngopharyngeal reflux: This condition can obstruct the eustachian tubes.

Yet another risk factor is having a ciliary disorder, such as primary ciliary dyskinesia, which is an inherited condition where the cilia in the airway do not work properly.

Symptoms of ETD can vary from mild to severe and may be different for each person.

Common symptoms include:

• a plugged feeling in the ears
• the ears feeling as if they are filled with water
• tinnitus, or ringing in the ear
• muffled hearing or partial hearing loss
• ticking or popping sounds
• pain and tenderness around the ear
• a tickling or tingling sensation
• trouble with balance

The length and severity of ETD symptoms depend on their cause. For instance, if ETD results from a change in altitude, these symptoms will often go away as the body adjusts to the pressure or reaches a lower altitude.

By contrast, ETD that is due to an illness or infection can last much longer. Anyone with ETD symptoms that last more than 2 weeks should seek guidance from a doctor.

Children with symptoms of ETD should receive medical help sooner, as the symptoms of ETD are similar to an ear infection.

When people experience dysfunction due to a nonviral cause, they are more likely to experience symptoms that persist for longer.

ETD can cause complications such as:

• ear infection
• middle ear atelectasis, which is a retraction of the eardrum
• chronic otitis media, which is when there is persistent fluid in the ear
• cholesteatoma, which is an abnormal skin growth in the middle ear

Any of these conditions can lead to dysfunction that causes hearing loss.

Doctors usually diagnose ETD based on a physical examination and a person’s symptoms.

A doctor may ask about hearing changes, pain in the ears, or feelings of pressure. They will also look inside the eardrum and the middle ear using an otoscope, checking for any signs of infection or blockages.

A doctor may need to look at an audiogram. This shows the results of a hearing test, or a tympanogram, which shows the function of the eardrum.

If there are cholesteatomas in the ear, or if there are concerns about skin migration into the middle ear, the doctor may order additional imaging tests.

If ETD occurs as a result of another condition, the doctor may ask questions about that as well in order to determine the correct treatment.

The symptoms of ETD will usually clear up on their own. If another condition is causing the symptoms, however, they will resolve once a person receives treatment for the underlying cause.

Home remedies

If the symptoms of ETD are bothersome, some simple home remedies may help. A person can address minor ETD symptoms, such as those due to a change in altitude or air pressure, by chewing gum or forcing a yawn.

Many people also find that the symptoms of minor ETD can go away as they swallow, so drinking a beverage or having a snack may help. These remedies help open and close the eustachian tube and relieve the pressure.

Doing the valsalva maneuver can also help. This means pinching the nose closed while closing the mouth, and blowing into the nose. This can also help relieve ear pressure on an airplane.

Children experiencing minor or temporary ETD symptoms can eat a snack or chew a piece of gum. Giving an infant a bottle or pacifier may help relieve the symptoms.

A person can relieve minor to moderate symptoms by using a saline nasal spray or irrigation system. Sometimes, dried mucus or other particles can get stuck in or near the eustachian tube and cause symptoms. Clearing the passageways can help eliminate anything clogged in the passage.

Over-the-counter medication

Depending on the cause, some over-the-counter drugs may help with ETD symptoms.

Someone who experiences ETD due to allergies may find relief using antihistamines, such as cetirizine (Zyrtec), diphenhydramine (Benadryl), or loratadine (Alavert, Claritin), or nasal steroid sprays.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen, may help with pain and swelling. A person should check with a doctor to make sure these medications will not interact with any other medication they are taking.

Medical treatments

If the symptoms of ETD are due to a bacterial ear infection, a doctor will likely prescribe antibiotics. This may be a topical treatment or an oral antibiotic.

In severe cases of ETD, a doctor may prescribe oral steroids as well.

Surgery

Sometimes, fluids build up behind the eardrum and cannot escape through the dysfunctional eustachian tubes. In such cases, doctors may make a small cut in the eardrum to help with fluid drainage.

People who experience frequent severe ETD may need pressure equalization (PE) tubes. These are implants that balance the pressure in the ears and help reduce the likelihood of middle ear infections. It is a common procedure for children, but it can be suitable for adults as well.

Other surgical procedures include:

• eustachian tube balloon dilation, which uses a saline-filled balloon catheter to dilate the tubes
• transtubal application of fluids, in which a surgeon uses a nasal microendoscope to pass fluids to the middle ear and regulate ear pressure
• eustachian tuboplasty, which uses a laser or rotary cutting tool to clear obstructions from mucous membranes or cartilage in the eustachian tube

Most often, doctors use these procedures in adults. Children usually get PE tubes and will typically not need them as they get older.

A big part of any prevention strategy for ETD involves:

• leading a healthy lifestyle
• maintaining good hygiene to avoid cold- or flu-causing germs
• practicing good management of any allergies or asthma

This can help prevent common triggers that can cause the condition.

ETD and flying

When people fly, they may experience a common sensation in their ears known as airplane ear, ear barotrauma, barotitis media, or aerotitis media. It is a sensation of pressure, sometimes also pain, in the ears as the plane ascends and descends.

The cause is a quick change in altitude and pressure. When this happens, and the eustachian tube does not ventilate properly, a dysfunction occurs.

Since flying can put a person at risk of the condition, it may help to do the following when on a plane:

• swallowing repeatedly, for example, by drinking water, chewing gum, or eating candy as a way to help the process
• doing the valsalva maneuver
• yawning repeatedly to cause a popping sensation that can equalize pressure
• wearing earplugs during take off and landing to reduce the impact of the pressure change
• using a nasal decongestant for acute discomfort before, during, or after flying. However, a person should not use this for more than 3 days.

ETD is common, but most cases resolve with little or no help. Treating the underlying cause is the best way to treat and prevent recurring symptoms of ETD.

Children and adults who get symptoms that interfere with their daily lives, as well as those with chronic ETD symptoms, should contact a doctor to consider more thorough treatments.

advice on what to do if your nose runs into your throat and your ears hurt

Content

• 1 How to get rid of a runny nose, sore throat and earache: effective tips
  • 1.1 How to get rid of a runny nose: treatment and prevention
  • 1.2 Related videos:
  • 1.3 Causes of a runny nose
  • 1.4 Symptoms of a runny nose: how to tell if you are sick
    • 1.4.1 Nasal congestion and runny nose
    • 1.4.2 Sore throat and cough
    • 1 .4.3 Ear discomfort and pain
    • 1.4.4 General symptoms
  • 1. 5 Folk remedies for the common cold
  • 1.6 How to deal with a bad cold: medicines
    • 1.6.1 Presence in the medicine cabinet
    • 1. 6.2 Mucocystatics and mucolytics
    • 1.6.3 Complex remedies
  • 1.7 Avoid the common cold: prevention
    • 1.7.1 Strengthen your immunity
    • 1.7.2 Maintain hygiene 90 008
    • 1.7.3 Avoid sick people
    • 1.7.4 Include variety in your life
  • 1.8 What to do if a runny nose runs down your throat?
  • 1.9 Why do earaches occur with a runny nose?
  • 1.10 How to relieve earache in a cold
  • 1.11 Complications in a cold: how to prevent them?
  • 1.12 When should I see a doctor if I have a bad cold?
  • 1.13 Tips for caring for a runny nose
  • 1.14 Q&A:
    • • 1.14.0.1 What is a runny nose?
      • 1.14.0.2 What are the types of the common cold?
      • 1.14.0.3 How can you deal with a bad cold?
      • 1.14.0.4 What should I do if my nose runs down my throat and my ears hurt?
      • 1. 14.0.5 What role does good nutrition play in a cold?
      • 1.14.0.6 What are the folk remedies for the common cold?

How to deal with a severe runny nose when it causes discomfort in the throat and ears? In this article, you will learn the causes and effective treatments for the common cold and its associated symptoms. Do not suffer – find a way to alleviate your condition and restore your health!

A severe runny nose is a truly unpleasant phenomenon that torments us at any time of the year. It can lead to diseases of the throat, ears and head, reduce performance and worsen the quality of life. But there are a number of simple but effective ways to help you quickly cope with a runny nose and related symptoms.

In a healthy person, there are over 50 different types of bacteria in the nasal cavity. Some of them are beneficial for the body, and some are vice versa. A runny nose can occur for many reasons: hot summers, cold winter winds, heavy physical exertion. However, a runny nose can also occur when the immune system is disrupted and in contact with foreign bacteria.

In this article, we will tell you how to deal with a severe runny nose, what to do if the accompanying symptoms begin to bother you, what not to do when treating a runny nose, and why you cannot ignore this serious symptom.

How to get rid of the common cold: treatment and prevention

The common cold is a common disease, for which there are many methods of treatment.

The first step in a cold is to pay attention to prevention. To protect against colds, you should instill the body with vitamins. It is important to provide an internal microflora of bacteria that works in mucous membranes and protects them from virus attacks. You should also regularly carry out wet cleaning, ventilate the room and avoid close contact with sick people.

In the event of a runny nose, treatment should be sought. Treatment can be both medical and folk remedies. For medical treatment of the common cold, you can use drops, sprays and tablets. However, it is important to remember that the use of certain medications may be contraindicated, so it is necessary to consult a doctor before starting treatment.

Among folk remedies for the treatment of the common cold, the most effective is the use of aloe juice drops. It is also useful to take warm drinks and do inhalations over steam.

• Prevention helps to avoid the appearance of a runny nose;
• The common cold can be treated with medication or folk remedies;
• Consult your doctor before taking any medication.

Related videos:

Causes of a runny nose

Runny nose is a common disease that can occur for various reasons. One of the most common causes are viruses that cause respiratory illnesses. It can be the flu, a cold, or other illnesses that are accompanied by a runny nose.

Allergies can also cause a runny nose. Allergic people may react to various allergens in the environment, such as dust, pollen, pet food, and other substances. As a result, the body’s defense mechanism is activated, and a runny nose occurs.

There are also several other causes of a runny nose such as drug use, climate change, morning runny nose, etc. In any case, it is necessary to find out the cause of the common cold in order to effectively treat it and prevent possible complications.

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Runny nose symptoms: how to tell if you are sick

Nasal congestion and runny nose

One of the main symptoms of a runny nose – nasal congestion, which occurs due to inflammation of the mucous membrane. The person may feel discomfort and difficulty breathing, especially at night.

Runny nose is also characterized by the release of a large amount of mucus from the nose, which can be either liquid or thick.

Sore throat and cough

Severe runny nose can cause sore throat due to accumulation of mucus and difficulty breathing. Often accompanied by a cough, which is caused by a reflex reaction to irritation of the nasopharynx.

Discomfort and pain in the ears

A severely stuffy nose can change the pressure in the middle ear and cause discomfort or pain. If the common cold is not treated for a long time, this can lead to the development of hearing loss.

General symptoms

With a runny nose, a person may feel weakness, headache and fatigue, which is associated with the removal of a large amount of moisture and energy from the body to fight infection.

Folk remedies for the common cold

A severe runny nose can be quite unpleasant. But you can try using folk remedies to treat it to avoid the use of chemicals.

1. Garlic and onion. These foods are powerful antibacterial agents that will help reduce inflammation and fight infection in your nose. They can be used as food additives or inhaled by adding them to boiling water.
2. Turmeric. This wonderful spice has a lot of curcumin, in addition to its excellent taste, it is a powerful antioxidant. Turmeric may also help reduce the burning sensation that accompanies a runny nose. Mix turmeric with honey and add to hot milk. Drink every day until the runny nose is completely gone.
3. Ginger tea. Ginger also has anti-inflammatory properties and can help with a runny nose. Use fresh ginger and cut it into pieces. Pour in boiling water and let steep for a few minutes. Add lemon and honey for flavor intensity and health benefits.

In addition, clean the nose with saline or use vasoconstrictor drops such as naphthyzinum to reduce inflammation and swelling of the mucous membrane. But remember that the alternative treatment of the common cold does not solve the root problem, and if the symptoms do not disappear, you should consult a doctor.

How to cope with a severe runny nose: medicines

Presence in the first aid kit

In the presence of a severe cold in the first aid kit, there must be drugs that anesthetize and reduce swelling of the mucous membrane. Means in the form of sprays or drops of vasoconstrictor action of blood vessels will help reduce nasal congestion. For more effective action, it is recommended to use products based on xylometazoline or oxymetazoline.

Mucocystatics and mucolytics

In case of severe nasal congestion caused by a runny nose with a lot of mucus, but not very pronounced swelling of the vessels, it is useful to use mucocystatics and mucolytics. These remedies have the ability to thin thick snot and improve its discharge from the nose. Preparations “Acetylcysteine”, “Ambroxol” will help simplify the process of removing mucus from the body.

Complex remedies

For quick and effective relief from a runny nose, you can use complex preparations, such as Nazivin Complex, Rint, Adrenotsin, which in their composition contain various components based on vasoconstrictor, immunity booster, anti-inflammatory and other pronounced beneficial properties.

Avoid the common cold: prevention

Strengthen your immunity

A strong immune system will help your body fight the viruses and bacteria that cause the common cold. To strengthen your immune system, you need to monitor your health and eat right. Include more fruits and vegetables in your diet, and eat probiotic-rich foods like yogurt. Don’t forget about exercise, which will also help your body be more resistant to viruses.

Maintain good hygiene

Maintain good hygiene to avoid catching an infection that will cause a runny nose. Wash your hands regularly, especially after visiting public places and contact with sick people. Use disposable nose wipes and throw them away immediately after use.

Try to avoid sick people

If you notice symptoms of a runny nose in your colleagues or relatives, try not to come close to them. Do not use their personal items, including towels and cutlery. Also avoid traveling to countries with an unfavorable epidemiological situation.

Incorporate variety into your life

Incorporating variety into your daily life helps you avoid routine, stress and disease in its entirety. Watch comfortable movies, read interesting books, play sports and design a vibrant lifestyle. Thus, you not only strengthen your immunity, but also bring joy to your life!

What should I do if a runny nose runs down my throat?

A runny nose is one of the most common manifestations of a cold. When a runny nose becomes severe, it can cause snot to run down the throat, causing discomfort and additional problems.

If a runny nose runs down the throat, especially at night, it can interfere with sleep and cause chronic fatigue. To avoid this, the following recommendations can be applied:

• Drink plenty of water. Infection can reside in the nasopharynx and cause weakness and fatigue, so it is important to drink plenty of water to help your body fight off a cold and stay healthy.
• Rinse your nose with saline. This helps soften mucus and soothes irritation in the nasopharynx, which can reduce the amount of snot running down the throat.
• Apply ointment to nasal passages. Ointments containing menthol, camphor, and eucalyptus may help open the airways and reduce the amount of mucus that runs down the throat.

During a runny nose, it is very important to listen to your body and take steps to protect and restore it. Use these simple tips to reduce your runny nose and avoid its comorbidities.

Why do earaches occur with a runny nose?

It is not uncommon for a cold to cause pain in the ears. This is due to the fact that the recumbent course of the ear tube is located next to the nasopharynx, where inflammation develops during a runny nose. As a result of swelling of the mucous membrane of the nasopharynx, the opening of the supine passage is difficult, and the pressure in the ear cavity begins to grow, causing pain.

Fluid from the nose can also enter the ear cavity through the auditory tube, causing irritation and possible infection. In this case, it is important to immediately consult a doctor and start treatment in order to avoid serious complications.

To prevent pain in the ears with a runny nose, you need to monitor your health, do not overcool, start treatment at the first symptoms of a runny nose and avoid self-medication, smoking and contact with sick people. It is also useful to frequently ventilate the room and humidify the air in it.

How to relieve the pain in the ears with a runny nose

Against the backdrop of a severe runny nose, many people may experience ear pain. This is because nasal congestion creates negative pressure in the middle ear, which causes discomfort and pain.

To relieve ear pain from a runny nose, you can use the following recommendations:

• Nasal wash . If nasal congestion is causing ear pain, then rinsing the nose can help. To do this, you can use special tools or ordinary salt water. This will help relieve swelling of the mucosa and reduce pressure in the middle ear;
• Use of cold drops . Drops from a runny nose can help not only relieve congestion, but also reduce ear pain. However, before use, you should consult your doctor or pharmacist to choose the best drug;
• Warm relief . Applying a warm compress to the affected ear can help relax the muscles and relieve pain. To do this, you can use a warm dry cloth or heating pad, but you need to make sure that the temperature is not too high so as not to cause burns;
• Getting medical help . If your ear pain persists or gets worse, you should see a doctor. Anti-inflammatory or antibiotic medications may be needed to manage a severe runny nose and protect the body from complications.

Common cold complications: how can they be prevented?

Runny nose, it would seem, is a disease without serious consequences. However, this is not quite true. Especially if a chronic runny nose is left untreated, it can lead to serious complications.

The most serious complications are diseases of the auditory organs. With a runny nose, infectious microorganisms can enter the middle ear through the tube of the auditory pharynx. This can lead to inflammation of the middle ear (otitis media) and, in its advanced forms, hearing loss.

In addition, a runny nose can lead to complications at higher levels of the body, such as bronchitis, pneumonia, and even cardiovascular disease.

At the same time, the right method of treatment and prevention of complications can help to overcome the common cold without consequences. This is, first of all, a healthy lifestyle, hygiene and rational nutrition.

• Timely and correct treatment of the common cold. Treat the common cold as early as possible. Sprays, drops, syrups based on sea water and herbal ingredients will help.
• Avoid contaminated areas. Wear masks when visiting public places and public transport to avoid viruses and bacteria from entering the body.
• Strengthen the immune system. Eat foods rich in vitamins and minerals, get enough sleep, exercise, avoid alcohol and nicotine.

Thus, a runny nose can be a serious disease, if not paid attention to and not treated, in addition, it can lead to serious complications, provoke more serious diseases of the body. Sanctions against the common cold are reduced to active prevention, proper hygienic work, as well as to an attentive and timely fight against it.

When should I see a doctor if I have a bad cold?

Severe runny nose can be the cause of weakened immunity and diseases of the upper respiratory tract. Usually a runny nose goes away on its own within a week, but there are cases when you should consult a doctor for help.

• If a runny nose does not go away for more than two weeks;
• If the snot is too profuse or thin and yellow or green in color for more than 4-5 days;
• If the presence of a runny nose is accompanied by pain in the teeth and head, as well as increased body temperature;
• If the ear starts to hurt annoyingly during a runny nose, otherwise it may be a sign of the development of an inflammatory process in the middle ear;
• If you experience severe chest pain, difficulty breathing during a runny nose, this may be a sign of lung disease.

If you have a severe runny nose, if you feel that you cannot control it, you should see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment. Compliance with the treatment prescribed by the doctor will increase the chances of recovery and prevention of complications.

Nasal care tips for a runny nose

Pay special attention to nasal hygiene during illness. Regular rinsing of the nasal cavity with warm saline will not only improve the condition of the nose, but also help flush out protective mucus and pathogens.

To avoid dryness of the nasal mucosa, you need to moisturize it. This can be done with special sprays or natural oils that will prevent nervousness and loss of energy.

• Nasal Drop: This is an easy way to relieve nasal congestion and make breathing easier.
• The use of vasoconstrictor drops will help open the airway and reduce swelling, but do not exceed the recommended dose and frequency of use.
• The use of hot compresses on the nose or inhalations has already been tested by time. They help relieve swelling and secrete mucus-filled mucus.

Do not forget that in sick people the nasal mucosa becomes very sensitive and therefore external irritants such as dust, tobacco smoke, dirt or strong odors should be avoided.

Q&A:

What is a runny nose?

Runny nose is an inflammation of the nasal mucosa, which is manifested by an increase in its secretions and respiratory failure. It can be caused by various reasons, such as viral or bacterial infections, allergies, or increased dryness of the air.

What are the types of the common cold?

There are several types of the common cold. Acute runny nose usually lasts from a few days to a week and is caused by viruses or bacteria. Chronic runny nose can last for several months and may be caused by allergies or other environmental factors. Tumor rhinitis is usually associated with the presence of a tumor in the nose or paranasal sinuses.

How can you deal with a bad cold?

Several methods can be used to deal with a severe runny nose. For example, you can use nasal drops or sprays that constrict the blood vessels in your nose and reduce secretions. You should also humidify the air in the room, drink plenty of fluids, ventilate the room and avoid contact with allergens.

What should I do if my nose runs down my throat and my ears hurt?

If your nose runs down your throat and your ears hurt, your runny nose may have caused inflammation of the middle ear. In this case, you should consult a doctor who will prescribe treatment, including antibiotics, painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs.

What role does proper nutrition play in a cold?

Proper nutrition can help the body fight a runny nose and speed up recovery. Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and green leaves that contain vitamins and antioxidants. Fatty and spicy foods, which can increase the production of mucus in the body, should also be avoided.

What are the folk remedies for the common cold?

There are many folk remedies for the common cold. For example, you can apply mustard patches to your nose or inhale with the addition of essential oils. It is also recommended to consume a large amount of tea with honey and lemon so that the body copes with the infection faster. However, the use of any alternative methods should be discussed with a doctor in order to avoid negative consequences.

Ear Nose Throat | Özel Bilgi Hastanesi

The ear (auris) is an anatomical structure that functions as hearing and contains the organ of balance.

Anatomically, the nose is a protruding olfactory-respiratory organ with two openings, located between the forehead and upper lip on the face. The nasal cavity opens with two openings. On the other hand, it connects to the pharynx. There is a layer of mucus in the nose, capillaries and hair.

The throat is the second unit of the digestive system after the mouth, which starts from the lower part of the skull and connects to the esophagus at the level of the cartilage of the lower part of the larynx, the walls of which are formed by muscles

strait; It opens into the back of the nasal cavities in the anterior upper part, into the oral cavity in the anterior middle part, and into the laryngeal cavity in the lower part. The tonsils are located where the throat meets the mouth.

Diseases of the throat and nose

1. Inflammation of the tonsils

Tonsils are lymph nodes. a One on each side behind your mouth. Among other things, it must also filter harmful microorganisms that enter the mouth. But when too many bacteria get in, they can’t fight back. they become inflamed and swollen. This is called tonsillitis (tonsillitis). This is very common, especially among children.

Symptoms

1) Sore throat, headache, fever and chills, chills

2) Painful glands in the throat and jaw

light food and drink watery food, which will relieve the throat. Gargling with warm salt water relieves pain.

2. Nasal flesh

Adenoids, pharynx, tonsils, vegetation, together with tonsils, form part of the lymphoid tissue. This is another tonsil located behind the nose. These small tonsils are not visible on examination. Protects the respiratory tract from viruses and microbes from the outside.

If the meat of the nose is often contaminated with germs, it grows in size, becomes a nest of germs and causes permanent diseases of the throat, ears and nose.

Symptoms of adenoid hypertrophy may begin in infancy. In addition to sleep disturbances, loss of appetite, snoring, and sometimes symptoms of labored breathing such as breathing through the nasal wings are observed.

3. Pharyngitis

Inflammation of the integumentary tissue of the posterior pharyngeal wall. This may be due to either a lack of irritation or a bacterial infection

Symptoms of pharyngitis Pain in the back of the throat, difficulty swallowing and fever. In addition to these symptoms, there is often malaise.

4. Throat reflux

The stomach releases acid to digest food. The valve system that exists to prevent stomach contents and fluid from escaping from the stomach tries to prevent gastric juice from leaking out of the stomach. When the valve between the stomach and esophagus (lower esophageal sphincter) does not work properly, the acidic contents of the stomach leak out into the esophagus. This is called “gastroesophageal reflux (GER)”.

When the valve (upper esophageal sphincter) between the esophagus and throat fails, the contents of the stomach reach the throat and larynx, i.e. the vocal cords, which are much more sensitive to acid, stomach contents and bile. This condition is called laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR).

This reflux is different from the commonly known gastric reflux. Upper throat reflux is more common during the day and when standing, while gastric reflux is more common and causes discomfort when lying down. The sensory structure of the tissues of the larynx and pharynx, as well as some of the neural reflexes and movements of the esophagus, also play an important role in the development of LPR.

5. Sinusitis

Sinusitis means infection of the sinus cavities. For sinusitis to occur, the sinuses must not perform their normal functions, and bacteria must settle in the sinuses.

Occlusion of the channels connecting the sinuses with the nasal cavity is one of the main factors in the formation of infection. Due to a simple cold or allergic disease, the mucous membrane lining the ducts and sinus cavities swells. As a result, air is prevented from entering the sinuses and mucus from the sinuses from entering the nose. Decreased oxygen in the sinuses impairs cell function. Infection begins with the growth of bacteria that are excreted from the sinuses.

Although sinusitis can be treated quite effectively, serious, although rare, complications can be observed. The fact that the sinuses are adjacent to the eye and brain causes infections that cause problems in these organs. These problems are associated with infections of the brain and eye tissues.

6. Hay fever

Hay fever or allergic rhinitis is an immune system disorder that begins with an antigen-antibody reaction in susceptible individuals. In other words, the sensitive person recognizes the allergen as a foreign body and creates similar antibodies against foreign organisms (eg bacteria) against that allergen. This predisposition is inherited in the form of IgE and a tendency to form antibodies (atopy). Despite the fact that it is genetically transmitted, the newborn does not have an allergy.

It is believed that the delayed onset of allergy is due to the activation of this gene during a viral infection. In whatever period of life this activation occurs, after this moment a person develops an allergy. Hay fever is typical of an allergy, and the reaction results from a histamine reaction to an inhaled allergen. As a result of the formation of antigen-specific IgE and antibodies and their combination with the antigen, histamine is released. Histamine causes an inflammatory process in the nasal mucosa and causes mucosal swelling, itching, irritation, and excessive mucus production. In parallel with the growth of urbanization, industrialization and air pollution, the incidence of allergic rhinitis has increased worldwide over the past century.

7. Nasal congestion

Stuffy nose, shortness of breath is one of the oldest human complaints. Even if for some it is not very important, others experience great difficulties because of these complaints.

Doctors examine the causes of nasal congestion in four sections, and sometimes there may be similar points between them. These common points are exacerbated, especially in patients whose complaints are due to several causes.

8. Nosebleed

Nosebleeds are often annoying. But sometimes it is frightening and life-threatening. Experts divide nosebleeds into two groups.

1) Anterior nosebleeds come from the front of the nose. It manifests itself in the form of bleeding from the nostrils in a standing or sitting person.

2) Posterior bleeding: bleeding from the back of the nose. Bleeding goes towards the nose. Bleeding towards the throat, even when sitting or standing. When the patient is lying on their back, bleeding can occur in both directions, even if there is bleeding from the front.

9. Snoring

At least 45% of normal adults snore from time to time. 25% snore constantly. The problem of snoring is most common in obese men and increases with age.

USA More than 300 companies have developed anti-snoring devices. Chin and neck straps, lanyards, and intraoral devices were of no benefit. Electronic devices have been found that work with the sound of snoring and wake the patient up. All this was considered the patient’s practice of sleeping without snoring. Unfortunately, snoring is a problem beyond the control of the individual, and all these devices are only designed to put the patient to sleep.

10. Inflammation of the middle ear

Inflammation of the middle ear occurs when viruses reach the middle ear through the Eustachian tube from the nose or throat during upper respiratory infections. The function of the Eustachian tube is disrupted by colds, allergies, sinus or throat infections, and a malfunctioning Eustachian tube passes the infection to the middle ear.

Infection in the middle ear causes pain in the ear, redness of the eardrum, accumulation of mucus or pus in the middle ear. An inflamed eardrum sometimes perforates at its weakest point and oozes pus from it. Because in most cases the Eustachian tube swells, the pus cannot drain into the nasal cavity and remains in the middle ear. If ventilation of the middle ear is not possible and a vacuum has formed in the cavity, fluid or mucus accumulates in the middle ear, this situation is called serous otitis media. This condition often becomes chronic. In other words, it can last weeks, months, or even years after the acute and painful period of inflammation has passed.

11. Ringing in the ears

Sometimes ringing in the ear is not normal. These sounds in the head are commonly referred to as tinnitus and are very common. You may experience tinnitus from time to time, or you may hear the sound all the time. It can be very thick or very thin and can be heard in one or both ears. A constant ringtone can cause discomfort in a person. In fact, this discomfort can reach levels that affect people’s normal lives

12. Head and neck cancer

Head and neck cancer occurs in 5-7% of all cancer cases. Laryngeal cancer accounts for approximately 25% of head and neck cancers. This is followed by tongue cancer (13%), lip cancer (11%), esophageal cancer (10%). Most of them can be cured if detected early.

The early signs of most head and neck cancers make them more successful than other cancers. Let’s not forget that early diagnosis contributes to the successful treatment of head and neck cancer. Cancer that starts in the head and neck usually spreads to the lymph nodes without spreading to other parts of the body.

If you have swelling in your neck that lasts more than two weeks, see your doctor as soon as possible. Of course, not all tumors are cancer. But a swelling or lump on the neck; This may be the first sign of oral, breast, laryngeal, thyroid, lymphoma, or blood cancer. These types of bumps are painless and prone to enlargement.

13. Difficulties in swallowing

Dysphagia occurs in all age groups, especially in the elderly. The term dysphagia refers to the difficulty in passing food and liquids from the mouth to the stomach.