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Sinus excess mucus: What to Do About Sinus Congestion and Mucus – Guide to Sinus Health

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What to Do About Sinus Congestion and Mucus – Guide to Sinus Health

You’re sneezing, with a sore throat and mucus running out of your nose all day long; you know you’re sick.

But you might not know what’s causing your symptoms. Sinus congestion and excessive mucus production arise as your body tries to defend itself against foreign invaders — or when infection strikes.

Call it what you will, but that substance that comes out of your nose when you’re sick is mucus. The sinuses, which are hollow cavities filled with air located in the face, are lined with mucous membranes.

Mucous membranes are thin layers of moist tissues that produce the goopy material known as mucus, which you blow out of your nose or cough up when you have some sort of illness. It can be clear or yellow in color, and it has a thick, sticky consistency.

Mucus has an actual purpose. It’s secreted by the mucous membranes in order to protect the respiratory tract from tiny invaders like bacteria, viruses, germs, and allergens that you breathe. Mucus captures these germs to keep them from getting deeper into the respiratory tract. But sometimes the mucous membranes go a little overboard, and excessive mucus production results.

What Causes Excessive Mucus Production?

Nasal congestion, or a stuffy nose, occurs when the tissues that line your nasal passages become irritated, inflamed, and swollen, making breathing a challenge. It’s not mucus clogging your nose that causes those symptoms, although irritated nasal passages can lead to the production of excessive mucus. Sinus congestion occurs when the mucous membranes become irritated or infected and start to excrete more mucus than normal, filling those hollow areas with thick mucus.

Anything that irritates those mucous membranes can cause them to produce excessive mucus, including these health conditions:

  • A bacterial infection
  • A viral infection (like a cold or the flu)
  • Allergies (including hay fever or sensitivity to dust mites)
  • Asthma
  • An object lodged inside the nose
  • A sinus infection
  • A head injury
  • Excessive use of nasal sprays

When you’ve got too much mucus clogging your sinuses, it’s common to experience other symptoms too. The mucus can drain down your throat, for example, causing a cough and a sore throat. Excessive mucus can also back up into the ears, clogging them, causing tenderness, and sometimes resulting in an ear infection.

Ways to Get Excessive Mucus Under Control

There are several things you can do to get rid of excessive mucus and its accompanying symptoms like cough and sore throat. If you have a bacterial infection or allergies, your doctor may prescribe medication to ease inflammation and swelling and reduce the production of mucus.

At home, you can take these steps to thin out mucus and ease your sinus congestion:

  • Try using a saline (not medicated) nasal spray a few times a day.
  • Consider using a neti pot to rinse your sinuses (make sure you only utilize sterile, pre-boiled & cooled, or distilled water in it).
  • Drink plenty of water and other fluids each day.
  • Run a humidifier in your home to keep the air moist (be sure to follow manufacturer directions to clean the humidifier daily to avoid it becoming a source of sinus problems).
  • Try an over-the-counter antihistamine.

Excessive mucus production is just your body’s way of protecting itself and keeping those germs out of your lungs — but the result can be serious discomfort until you can clear all of it up. Take care of yourself with home remedies to thin out the thick discharge, and see your doctor if your symptoms don’t improve.

20 effective ways to get rid of phlegm and mucus

Phlegm is a type of mucus produced in the lungs and lower respiratory tract. It is most noticeable when a person is acutely sick or has a longstanding health condition.

Mucus forms a protective lining in certain parts of the body, even when a person is well. Mucus keeps these areas from drying out and helps to defend against invaders, including viruses and bacteria.

Though a healthy body requires some mucus, too much can be uncomfortable. Excess may be caused by:

  • infections, such as the common cold or flu
  • allergies
  • irritation of the nose, throat, or lungs
  • digestive conditions, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease
  • smoking tobacco products
  • lung diseases, such as pneumonia, lung cancer, cystic fibrosis, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Share on PinterestDrinking fluids, keeping the head elevated, and using nasal sprays may help to get rid of phlegm and mucus.

Taking the following actions can help to eliminate excess mucus and phlegm:

1. Keeping the air moist. Dry air irritates the nose and throat, causing more mucus to form as a lubricant. Placing a cool mist humidifier in the bedroom can promote better sleep, keeping the nose clear and preventing a sore throat.

2. Drinking plenty of fluids. The body needs to stay hydrated to keep mucus thin. When a person is sick with a cold, drinking extra fluids can thin the mucus and help the sinuses to drain. People with seasonal allergies may also find that staying hydrated helps to avoid congestion.

3. Applying a warm, wet washcloth to the face. This can be a soothing remedy for a pounding sinus headache. Inhaling through a damp cloth is a quick way to return moisture to the nose and throat. The heat will help to relieve pain and pressure.

4. Keeping the head elevated. When the buildup of mucus is particularly bothersome, it may help to sleep propped up on a few pillows or in a reclining chair. Lying flat can increase discomfort, because it may feel as though mucus is collecting at the back of the throat.

5. Not suppressing a cough. It may be tempting to use suppressants when experiencing a nagging, phlegm-filled cough. However, coughing is the body’s way of keeping secretions out of the lungs and throat. Use cough syrups sparingly, if at all.

6. Discreetly getting rid of phlegm. When phlegm rises from the lungs into the throat, the body is likely trying to remove it. Spitting it out is healthier than swallowing it.

7. Using a saline nasal spray or rinse. A saline spray or irrigator can clear out mucus and allergens from the nose and sinuses. Look for sterile sprays that contain only sodium chloride, and be sure to use sterile or distilled water when irrigating.

8. Gargling with salt water. This can soothe an irritated throat and may help to clear away residual mucus. One teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water can be gargled several times per day.

9. Using eucalyptus. Eucalyptus products have used to subdue coughs and reduce mucus for years. They are usually applied directly to the chest. A few drops of eucalyptus oil can also be added to a diffuser or a warm bath to help clear the nose.

10. Not smoking and avoiding secondhand smoke. Smoking and secondhand smoke cause the body to produce more phlegm and mucus.

11. Minimizing the use of decongestants. While they dry secretions and can alleviate a runny nose, decongestants may make it harder to get rid of phlegm and mucus.

12. Taking the right medicine. Medications known as expectorants can help to thin mucus and phlegm, making them easier to cough or blow out. However, check to make sure that these medications do not also contain decongestants.

13. Keeping allergies in check. Seasonal allergies can lead to a runny or stuffy nose, as well as excess mucus and phlegm.

14. Avoiding irritants. Chemicals, fragrances, and pollution can irritate the nose, throat, and lower airways. This causes the body to produce more mucus.

15. Keeping track of food reactions. Some foods can cause reactions that mimic seasonal allergies. They may cause the nose to run and the throat to itch, leading to excess mucus. Make a record of any foods that trigger an increase in phlegm or mucus.

16. Avoiding alcohol and caffeine. Both substances lead to dehydration if consumed in excess. When mucus and phlegm are an issue, drink plenty of warm, non-caffeinated beverages.

17. Taking a hot bath or shower. Time spent in a steam-filled bathroom will help to loosen and clear mucus in the nose and throat. Allowing hot water to pulse on the face can also bring relief from sinus pressure.

18. Blowing the nose gently. It may be tempting to keep blowing until thick mucus comes out. However, doing so too forcefully may hurt the sinuses, leading to pain, pressure, and possibly infection.

19. Eating plenty of fruit. One study found that a diet rich in fiber from fruit, and possibly soy, may lead to fewer respiratory problems linked to phlegm.

20. Avoiding foods that cause acid reflux. Acid reflux can lead to an increase in phlegm and mucus. People prone to heartburn should avoid trigger foods and ask a doctor about proper management.

Share on PinterestAntibiotics should not be taken to treat mucus unless prescribed by a doctor.

Mucus is not usually a serious concern.

Many believe that colored mucus coming from the nose indicates a bacterial infection. However, it may instead show that the immune system is fighting a virus, or that a person is merely dehydrated.

Because yellow or green mucus from the nose does not necessarily signal a bacterial infection, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warn that a person does not need antibiotics based on this symptom alone. Antibiotics cannot treat viruses, and overuse may cause other health problems.

Outside research has confirmed that the color of phlegm is not a good indicator of bacterial infection in otherwise healthy adults who have acute coughs.

However, coughing colored phlegm from the lungs can indicate a bacterial infection or other illness, and may need to be evaluated by a doctor.

Can veganism really lower a person’s COVID-19 risk?

A vegan or plant-based diet cannot prevent a person from developing COVID-19, but it may help support a healthy immune system. This in turn could aid in SARS-CoV-2 infection prevention and lower the risk of severe symptoms.

People should note, that there is no direct evidence to support a link between a plant-based or vegan diet and protection from COVID-19 or other severe diseases.

That said, plant-based diets can also decrease a person’s risk of obesity and chronic diseases. These are conditions that tend to worsen the outcome of COVID-19.

This article explores plant-based diets and their health benefits in relation to COVID-19 and otherwise. It also looks at how a vegan diet could decrease the risk factors for more severe effects of COVID-19.

There is no specific diet that lowers a person’s risk of developing COVID-19.

The World Health Organization (WHO) advise people eat a balanced diet to strengthen their immune systems during the COVID-19 pandemic. This includes eating fresh, unprocessed foods, such as vegetables, legumes, and whole grains.

The WHO also recommend avoiding consumption of sugar fat, and salt, and limiting red meat consumption to 1–2 times a week, and poultry to 2–3 times per week. They also suggest consuming no more than 160g of meat and beans daily.

According to research, a plant-based diet has health benefits for weight, energy metabolism, and systemic inflammation. These beneficial effects could support a healthy immune system and lower a person’s risk of severe impacts of COVID-19.

That said, it is important to note that eating a plant-based diet and identifying as a vegan are not, strictly speaking, the same. The term “plant-based” refers only to diet, while veganism incorporates other factors.

People who identify as vegans object to exploiting or killing animals for food, clothing, or any other reason. However, some people who identify as vegans may eat mainly processed foods, which in itself as a dietary plan is not beneficial to health.

By contrast, people who follow a plant-based diet eat mainly or exclusively plant foods. People may have a diet that consists solely or predominantly of freshly prepared whole foods. They may choose this approach for health, environmental, or ethical reasons.

It is of note that a plant-based diet does not necessarily lead to an improved immune system. A person can follow a plant-based diet and have poor health due to consuming far too many processed foods, plant-based alternatives, and plant fats.

If a person eats mainly processed foods and few vegetables and fruits and does not supplement essential nutrients, such as vitamin B12, they may counteract the potential benefits of a plant-based diet.

Learn more about foods with B12 for vegetarians and vegans here.

In the sections below, we discuss some of the health benefits of plant-based diets and how following them may impact the risk of developing COVID-19.

More vitamins and minerals

A review in the British Journal of Nutrition suggests that people with optimal levels of micronutrients may be more resilient to COVID-19.

Micronutrients are vitamins and minerals that people obtain from their diet. Human bodies also produce vitamin D in response to exposure to sunlight.

Plant foods contain many vitamins and minerals essential for a healthy immune system, such as zinc, selenium, and vitamins A, C, and E. Selenium is a trace mineral that benefits immune system health and cognitive function.

However, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), only one in 10 adults in the United States eat enough fruits or vegetables.

By switching to a plant-based diet that includes a wide variety of fruits and vegetables or eating more plant-based foods, people will increase their intake of essential minerals and vitamins that support the immune system. This in turn may increase people’s resilience to COVID-19.

Learn more about anti-inflammatory foods here.

Increased antioxidants and polyphenols

Healthy vegan diets that include a wide variety of fruits and vegetables are rich in antioxidants. These are compounds that fight free radicals and help counteract oxidative stress.

Some vitamins and minerals, as well as plant compounds such as polyphenols, act as antioxidants. Polyphenols are present in berries, olives, and nuts, among other foods.

According to a 2021 review, studies are currently underway to test whether polyphenols could potentially help prevent or treat viral infections, such as infections with SARS-CoV-2. However, at present, there is no evidence of this.

The authors explain that as people age, their immune system is less able to combat infections. The researchers refer to this immunological aging as immunosenescence. Polyphenols can counteract the senescence process and reduce inflammation.

Another review notes that excessive oxidative stress may be responsible for the lung damage, thrombosis, and red blood cell dysregulation that occurs in some people with COVID-19.

The authors of the review suggest that antioxidants could have therapeutic effects. Therefore, a plant-based diet rich in antioxidants and polyphenols may help protect against COVID-19.

Learn more about some of the top foods high in antioxidants here.

Support for a healthy gut microbiome

According to some research, SARS-CoV-2 alters the gut microbiota, and probiotics and prebiotics may improve the immune function in people with a SARS-CoV-2 infection.

The fiber in plant foods provides prebiotics to feed gut bacteria. Research shows that plant-based diets influence the gut microbiome favorably, increasing bacterial diversity and potentially reducing inflammation.

According to a 2020 review, a plant-based fiber-rich diet may have protected COVID-19 patients in India. The authors suggest that plant-based foods are likely to boost a gut microbiota capable of triggering an anti-inflammatory response.

Decreased obesity and comorbidities

Eating a plant-based diet may help people avoid having obesity and other health conditions that could worsen their experience of COVID-19 if they develop it.

Research suggests that a SARS-CoV-2 infection results in increased hospitalization rates and greater severity of illness in people with diabetes or obesity.

According to a 2020 study, obesity was the most commonly reported underlying medical condition — 72.5% — in healthcare personnel hospitalized for COVID-19 in the United States.

Authors of a 2016 analysis indicate that plant-based diets could decrease inflammation and risk of chronic disease in people who have obesity.

A 2019 review notes a plant-based diet may help prevent the development of overweight, obesity, and diabetes. Research also supports the diet’s cardiovascular benefits.

People wishing to switch to a vegan diet should ensure that they eat fresh whole foods and avoid processed foods and “vegan junk food.

With veganism gaining popularity, more and more grocery stores and food outlets now offer a variety of vegan products.

It is important to note, however, that that a product is vegan does not necessarily mean it is healthy. It is still advisable to check nutrient density and the amounts of vitamins, minerals, fats, and added sugars of vegan products people consider buying.

People will benefit most from choosing fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats and protein sources.

Including a wide variety of plant foods and “eating a rainbow” allows people on a plant-based diet to get all the nutrients they need.

However, plant foods do not contain vitamin B12, an essential nutrient needed for red blood cell production and brain function, among other things.

That is why it is important for people on a plant-based diet to eat foods fortified with vitamin B12 and preferably take a vitamin B12 supplement. They may also need to supplement omega-3 fatty acids.

People can find numerous resources and recipes online to plan their plant-based meals. They may also consult a registered dietitian or nutritionist.

Learn more about plant foods high in protein here.

There is no conclusive evidence to suggest that any single diet can lower a person’s risk of developing COVID-19.

However, a plant-based or vegan diet may support a healthy immune system. This in turn can limit the risk of a SARS-CoV-2 infection, as well as its serious health complications.

Eating a plant-based diet may also help prevent the development of chronic health conditions that might cause complications or increase the severity of COVID-19 symptoms.

A vegan diet may also help people reach a moderate weight and prevent obesity, reducing the risk of worse COVID-19 outcomes.

It is worth noting that not all vegan foods are healthy, and people should avoid processed vegan foods and choose a whole foods diet instead.

People following a strict vegan diet should also ensure that they supplement essential nutrients, such as vitamin B12.

Coughing up blood: Causes, treatment, and more

People may fear the worst if they cough up blood. However, there are many potential causes, ranging from minor to severe.

The medical term for coughing up blood from the respiratory tract is hemoptysis. A range of conditions, ranging from minor throat irritation to certain lung conditions, can cause this complaint.

If a person coughs up blood, they can first check to see if the blood is coming from their gums or a minor mouth injury.

This article will look at some possible causes of coughing up blood, the treatment options, and when to contact a doctor.

Should someone have a nosebleed while lying on their back during sleep, the blood can flow into the back of the nose and the top of the throat. The person may swallow the blood and later cough it up.

A person may notice that blood comes out of their nose when they sit up. If someone has a severe nosebleed, they may also cough up blood that has flowed down into the throat.

Nosebleeds are not usually serious and should stop on their own. However, extreme bleeding that does not stop after about 30 minutes may require medical treatment.

Numerous respiratory infections — including laryngitis, bronchitis, and pneumonia — may cause a person to cough up blood.

Outside of the hospital, these infections are the most common reasons for coughing up blood. One analysis found that infections caused 64% of hemoptysis cases in an outpatient clinic.

People with respiratory tract infections may have recently had a cold or fever and may have other signs of illness, such as exhaustion. Other people in their family may be sick, too.

Sometimes, a person may recover with home treatment, and they may not need medication. Viral bronchitis, for example, usually clears on its own. On the other hand, bacterial bronchitis may require treatment with antibiotics.

In more severe cases, especially if a person has severe pneumonia, they may need to stay in the hospital for intravenous fluids, antibiotics, breathing treatments, and monitoring.

People with asthma may cough up blood during or after an asthma episode. In fact, in one outpatient study, asthma was the second leading cause of coughing up blood, accounting for 10% of cases.

People with asthma may notice wheezing, difficulty breathing, and coughing in the morning. They may also have asthma episodes during which these symptoms become severe.

Although doctors usually diagnose asthma in children, it can also appear in adulthood.

There is currently no cure for asthma, but a wide range of treatments can help ease the symptoms. For some people, allergies are a trigger for asthma episodes, so seeking allergy treatments and making lifestyle changes may help.

Exercising, receiving emergency steroids through an asthma inhaler, and taking some medications may help ease the symptoms of asthma.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a group of conditions that damage the alveoli in the lungs. COPD makes it more difficult for the lungs to exchange gas.

It is the fourth leading cause of death in the United States. People who smoke are more likely to develop COPD, especially as they age.

The symptoms develop slowly over time and tend to include:

  • chronic cough
  • shortness of breath
  • chest tightness

There is currently no cure for COPD, and the symptoms can worsen over time.

However, treatments can help improve quality of life and may slow the progression of the condition. These include:

  • receiving breathing treatments
  • exercising, if possible
  • making lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking
  • taking some medications

Blood in the mucus or a bloody cough may signal certain types of cancer, including lung cancer.

In a sample of outpatients with bloody coughs, lung cancer accounted for 6% of cases. People over the age of 40 years and individuals who smoke heavily are more likely to develop lung cancer.

Some symptoms of lung cancer include:

  • unexplained weight loss
  • wheezing
  • shortness of breath
  • chronic cough
  • coughing up blood
  • chronic fatigue

Treatment depends on the type of lung cancer a person has and how far it has progressed. However, it may include surgery to remove tumors, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.

Tuberculosis (TB) is a severe and potentially life threatening lung infection that may spread to other areas of the body.

If a person notices large quantities of blood, not just a few droplets, TB is more likely. Worldwide, it accounts for a significant portion of cases of coughing up blood, but in wealthy countries, the rate is lower.

People with TB get the infection from others, so people who live or work in close proximity to those at high risk of TB are more vulnerable themselves.

Symptoms include:

  • chronic cough
  • bleeding when coughing
  • weight loss
  • night sweats

People who have HIV are more likely to get TB.

Doctors usually treat TB with the antibiotic isoniazid. A person may also need oxygen and other treatments, depending on how severe their illness is.

Rarely, problems with the blood vessels in the lungs or elsewhere in the body may cause a person to cough up blood.

An embolism, which happens when a blood clot travels to the lungs, may cause a person to cough up blood.

People with a history of blood clots, those who must sit for long periods of time or who have recently had surgery, and individuals who smoke are more vulnerable.

An arteriovenous malformation (AVM) means that a major vein has a malformation. For example, it might be twisted or have other problems.

When a pulmonary AVM ruptures in or near the lungs, it may cause a person to cough up blood.

Blood vessel issues are medical emergencies and can be life threatening. Sudden bleeding or other symptoms, such as confusion or difficulty breathing, warrant a call to 911.

Treatment depends on the location of the issue but may include undergoing surgery, taking blood thinners, and receiving emergency supportive care.

Coughing up a minimal quantity of blood is not an emergency but suggests that a person may have an infection or other untreated illness.

So, a person should call a doctor any time they cough up blood.

Call 911 or go to the emergency room if a:

  • person has trouble breathing
  • person has a history of blood clots or is undergoing treatment for blood clots
  • person has intense chest pain
  • person feels confused or loses consciousness
  • baby or young child has difficulty breathing

Coughing up blood can be due to a range of conditions, many of which are highly treatable.

People will need to contact a doctor for a diagnosis to find out the underlying cause.

Nitric oxide supplements: Benefits, effectiveness, and risks

Nitric oxide is a compound in the body that causes blood vessels to widen and stimulates the release of certain hormones, such as insulin and human growth hormone.

Nitric oxide supplements are a category of supplements that includes L-citrulline and L-arginine. Researchers have performed multiple clinical trials related to nitric oxide supplements and their effectiveness, often with mixed results.

This article will examine how nitric oxide works in the body and some of the reported health benefits and risks of nitric oxide supplementation.

The two most common nitric oxide supplements are L-arginine and L-citrulline.

L-arginine is an amino acid, or a protein building block, naturally found in red meat, dairy products, poultry, and fish. Manufacturers produce it in a laboratory as a pill, powder, or cream.

L-citrulline is also an amino acid found in meat, nuts, legumes, and watermelon. Manufacturers can also make L-citrulline in a laboratory and package it as a pill or powder.

Without taking nitric oxide supplements, a person typically consumes about 5 grams (g) of L-arginine per day, according to an article in The Journal of Nutrition. The body converts this into nitric oxide for use in various body functions.

Some scientists believe that nitric oxide in the body relaxes or widens blood vessels. Some medications, such as Viagra harness the nitric oxide pathway to promote blood vessel widening and improve blood flow to the penis to enhance erections.

Many people think that taking nitric oxide supplements will enhance blood flow in the body to improve performance in sports, promote healing, enhance heart health, and provide many other potential benefits.

While there are many potential uses and benefits for nitric oxide supplements, there is not a lot of research to support some of the claims.

This is what the science says about the benefits of taking nitric oxide:

Improves heart health

According to an article published in the journal Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications, taking nitric oxide supplements offers several heart boosting effects. These include reducing arterial stiffness, reducing blood pressure, and improving carotid artery blood flow. However, it is important to note that the researchers studied animals, not humans, to find these effects.

Enhancing exercise and recovery

Share on PinterestA person may take nitric oxide supplements to improve athletic performance.

Researchers theorize that taking nitric oxide supplements could enhance the delivery of oxygen to muscles. This could potentially improve athletic performance and reduce soreness after a workout.

According to an article in the journal Sports Medicine, studies have shown that taking nitric oxide supplements may enhance tolerance to exercise. However, this only applies to those who did not exercise regularly or only exercised at a moderate rate.

The research has not shown that nitric oxide supplements can help elite athletes. Researchers carried out these studies on young males, so they do not know how nitric oxide supplements may affect older people and females.

Reducing erectile dysfunction

Because nitric oxide supplements enhance blood flow, researchers have conducted studies to determine if it could enhance blood flow for people with erectile dysfunction (ED).

According to an article in the journal Future Science OA, some studies have shown taking nitric oxide may reduce ED in those with mild to moderate ED.

Reducing high blood pressure in pregnancy

Preeclampsia, which is a form of high blood pressure that can occur in pregnancy, can be dangerous for both the woman and baby.

A 2005 study in the European Journal of Clinical Investigation found that pregnant women who took L-arginine supplements for a prolonged period had lower blood pressure readings than pregnant women who did not take L-arginine.

Although researchers need to conduct more studies, the results are promising for women struggling with high blood pressure in pregnancy.

Future research

These are just some examples of more extensive studies that examined the effectiveness of nitric oxide.

However, there are no studies that establish how much nitric oxide supplements people should take to achieve the same results as the study participants did.

People take nitric oxide for a variety of reasons, many of which do not have any scientific research to support them.

Some of the reported benefits of nitric oxide supplements include:

  • enhancing weight loss
  • improving lung function in those with cystic fibrosis
  • treating altitude sickness
  • improving recovery after major trauma or injury
  • preventing the common cold
  • reducing the side effects of memory loss
  • healing diabetic foot ulcers

Most of these benefits are anecdotal, meaning that people may have reported a benefit, but there is no proof backed up by a scientific study.

Share on PinterestA person should talk to a doctor about any interactions nitric oxide supplements may have with existing medications.

For most people, taking nitric oxide supplements does not cause side effects. When side effects do occur, they are often mild and may include:

However, some people should not take the supplements because of the risk of potential side effects. These include people with:

  • Cirrhosis: People with cirrhosis, or liver scarring, should take nitric oxide cautiously as it could worsen liver function.
  • Guanidinoacetate methyltransferase deficiency: This is a rare genetic condition where a person lacks an enzyme that converts arginine into creatine, which is a waste product. As a result, people with this deficiency should not take nitric oxide supplements.
  • Low blood pressure: If a person already has low blood pressure, they should not take nitric oxide supplements due to the risk that it might lower blood pressure further. Doctors will recommend that anyone taking nitric oxide supplements stops doing so before undergoing surgery.

Doctors also have some concerns that taking nitric oxide supplements could make some conditions worse. These include kidney disease, herpes, and after a person has had a heart attack.

A study published in 2006 in JAMA found that people taking L-arginine after a heart attack had a higher chance of death, experiencing a repeat heart attack, and being hospitalized than people who did not.

This article does not give a comprehensive list of potential conditions where a person should not take nitric oxide supplements.

The supplements may also interfere with medications, such as those for diabetes and high blood pressure. Anyone thinking about taking nitric oxide supplements should talk to their doctor first to ensure they will not interfere with existing conditions or any other medications they are taking.

Nitric oxide supplements have been available for decades, but as there is little scientific evidence to back up their use for specific health benefits, doctors do not routinely recommend them.

Instead, doctors may prefer to recommend lifestyle modifications or medications that scientists have proven to treat medical conditions effectively.

Nitric oxide supplements do not cause many side effects in most people, so some people might choose to try them. However, individuals should make sure that they do not have specific medical conditions that nitric oxide could harm.

A person should always talk to their doctor before taking nitric oxide or any other supplement to make sure they are making a safe, healthful choice.

Symptoms, causes, and home remedies

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Postnasal drip is extra mucus felt in the back of the nose and throat caused by the glands in these areas. People with postnasal drip usually feel they have to clear their throat more than normal.

The excess mucus can also cause some other symptoms.

There are many home remedies to treat postnasal drip, though sometimes a visit to the doctor is necessary.

Postnasal drip is when the sensation of mucus buildup at the back of the throat causes discomfort.

The nose, throat, and sinuses are all constantly producing mucus. Mucus is a thick and slippery substance that helps to keep the airways from drying out throughout the day.

The air people breathe is full of germs, pollen, and other environmental pollutants. When the air enters the body, these particles can create problems if they are not filtered out. It is the job of mucus to trap these foreign bodies and help eliminate them.

Mucus usually goes unnoticed. It harmlessly mixes with saliva throughout the day and is swallowed or blown from the nose. However, if the body produces too much mucus, it becomes much more noticeable.

When this happens, a person may feel mucus dripping down the back of their throat. This is what is known as postnasal drip.

In addition to the sensation of mucus dripping down the back of the throat, symptoms of postnasal drip include:

  • sore or scratchy throat
  • feelings of nausea caused by extra mucus in the stomach
  • frequently clearing the throat
  • excessive spitting up or swallowing mucus
  • foul breath
  • a cough that gets worse at night

Postnasal drip is commonly caused by allergies such as hayfever.

Postnasal drip is usually caused by certain changes in the environment or the body.

One of the most common causes of postnasal drip is an allergy. Seasonal allergies caused by plants releasing their pollen may cause trigger postnasal drip, as the body produces extra mucus to try and eliminate the pollen spores.

Cold weather or dry air can also cause postnasal drip. Breathing cold or dry air may irritate a person’s nose and throat, so their body will create mucus to humidify and warm the passages and ease this irritation.

Cold weather is also associated with viral infections, such as the flu, sinus infections, and the common cold. These infections cause many symptoms, including postnasal drip.

The body reacts to any invading germs by creating more mucus to flush them out. It may be uncomfortable, but it is actually the sign of the body working to stay healthy.

Other causes of postnasal drip include:

  • eating overly spicy food
  • pregnancy
  • objects stuck in the nose
  • irritating chemicals from perfumes, cleaning products, or environmental fumes
  • smoke
  • medications, including birth control and blood pressure medications
  • chronic respiratory conditions, such as COPD

A deviated septum, which occurs when the nasal septum (the wall between the nostrils) is crooked or damaged, can make it difficult for the body to drain mucus correctly. This may cause postnasal drip.

Most cases of postnasal drip clear up on their own. However, depending on its cause, complications can arise if postnasal drip is left untreated. There is a chance for infection if germs get in and cause the excess mucus to clog up the sinuses or Eustachian tube, which is the canal that connects the throat to the middle ear.

It is best to treat postnasal drip early to avoid complications, and people should see a doctor for any symptoms that last for more than 10 days.

There are remedies available to treat postnasal drip, including:

Drying out the mucus

Over-the-counter decongestant medications such as phenylephrine (Sudafed PE Congestion) and pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) can help dry out the mucus. This works for many people but may not be right for everyone.

These medications can dry out the mucus, and some people may find that their nose feels too dry. Others find these medications make them feel nervous or dizzy and may avoid them for this reason.

Newer drugs, such as loratadine (Claritin) and cetirizine (Zyrtec) are called non-sedating antihistamines, meaning they are less likely to cause fatigue. This is especially beneficial for people who have to work or drive while dealing with postnasal drip.

Additional over-the-counter non-sedating antihistamine options include fexofenadine (Allegra) and levocetirizine (Xyzal).

Each of these medications comes with side effects and may interact with other medicines. A person should discuss new medications with a doctor or pharmacist before trying them.

Thinning the mucus

Another home remedy for postnasal drip involves thinning the mucus out. There are over-the-counter medications for this, such as guaifenesin (Mucinex), but there are also some non-chemical options.

Increasing the moisture in the air may help make postnasal drip thinner and allow it to move smoothly through the passageways. Using humidifiers or steam vaporizers may help relieve postnasal drip, especially if it associated with clogged sinuses.

Using nasal sprays

Saline nasal sprays or irrigation pots use salt water to flush out the mucus buildup. These options may help clear blocked airways and reduce overall mucus content.

If the symptoms of a postnasal drip get worse at night, elevating the head while sleeping may help.

A person can also try using home remedies to treat postnasal drip. These include:

Propping up the head

If the mucus buildup gets worse at night, people may find it helps to sleep with their head slightly higher than the rest of their body.

Propping a couple of pillows under the head and shoulders promotes drainage and reduces the amount of mucus a person feels in their throat and airways.

Drinking fluids

The body also loses water through a postnasal drip. Drinking plenty of liquids can help to thin mucus, keep the mucus flowing smoothly, and prevent dehydration.

Warm teas and broths may also provide relief from other symptoms, such as a sore throat, and the steam may help clear the sinuses.

A person with discolored mucus that does not clear up should see a doctor, as this can be a sign of a bacterial or viral infection. A person with a postnasal drip caused by a bacterial infection may require antibiotics. Infections caused by a virus will not be treated with antibiotics, however.

Anyone who experiences foul smelling mucus or symptoms accompanied by a significant fever should see their doctor for a proper diagnosis. Also, people who have been experiencing symptoms of postnasal drip for 10 days or more should see a doctor for a diagnosis.

Doctors may order additional tests to check for other causes such as stomach acid reflux. They may also prescribe a steroid nasal spray for people who suffer from persistent allergies.

Sore Throat & More From Sinus Drainage

Every day, glands in the linings of your nose, throat, airways, stomach, and intestinal tract produce mucus. Your nose alone makes about a quart of it each day. Mucus is a thick, wet substance that moistens these areas and helps trap and destroy foreign invaders like bacteria and viruses before they cause infection.

Normally, you don’t notice the mucus from your nose because it mixes with saliva, drips harmlessly down the back of your throat, and you swallow it.

When your body produces more mucus than usual or it’s thicker than normal, it becomes more noticeable.

The excess can come out of the nostrils — that’s a runny nose. When the mucus runs down the back of your nose to your throat, it’s called postnasal drip.

What Causes Postnasal Drip?

The excess mucus that triggers it has many possible causes, including:

  • Colds
  • Flu
  • Allergies , also called allergic postnasal drip
  • Sinus infection or sinusitis, which is an inflammation of the sinuses
  • Object stuck in the nose (most common in children)
  • Pregnancy
  • Certain medications, including some for birth control and blood pressure
  • Deviated septum, which is the crooked placement of the wall that separates the two nostrils, or some other problem with the structure of the nose that affects the sinuses
  • Changing weather, cold temperatures, or really dry air
  • Certain foods (for example, spicy foods may trigger mucus flow)
  • Fumes from chemicals, perfumes, cleaning products, smoke, or other irritants

Sometimes the problem is not that you’re producing too much mucus, but that it’s not being cleared away. Swallowing problems can cause a buildup of liquids in the throat, which can feel like postnasal drip. These problems can sometimes occur with age, a blockage, or conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease, also known as GERD.

Symptoms

Postnasal drip makes you feel like you constantly want to clear your throat.

It also can trigger a cough, which often gets worse at night. In fact, postnasal drip is one of the most common causes of a cough that just won’t go away.

Too much mucus may also make you feel hoarse and give you a sore, scratchy throat.

If the mucus plugs up your Eustachian tube, which connects your throat to your middle ear, you could get a painful ear infection.

You could also get a sinus infection if those passages are clogged.

Treatments

How you treat postnasal drip depends on what’s causing it. Antibiotics can clear up a bacterial infection. However, green or yellow mucus is not proof of a bacterial infection.

Colds can also turn the mucus these colors, and they are caused by viruses, which don’t respond to antibiotics.

Antihistamines and decongestants can often help with postnasal drip caused by sinusitis and viral infections. They can also be effective, along with steroid nasal sprays, for postnasal drip caused by allergies.

Continued

The older, over-the-counter antihistamines, including diphenhydramine (Benadryl) and chlorpheniramine (Chlor-Trimeton), might not be the best choices for postnasal drip. When they dry out mucus, they can actually thicken it.

Newer antihistamines like loratadine (Claritin, Alavert), fexofenadine (Allegra), cetirizine (Zyrtec), levocetirizine (Xyzal), and desloratadine (Clarinex), may be better options and are less likely to cause drowsiness. It’s a good idea to check with your doctor before taking these because all of them can have side effects that range from dizziness to dry mouth.

Another option is to thin your mucus. Thick mucus is stickier and more likely to bother you. Keeping it thin helps prevent blockages in the ears and sinuses. A simple way to thin it out is to drink more water.

Other methods you can try include:

  • Take a medication such as guaifenesin (Mucinex).
  • Use saline nasal sprays or irrigation , like a neti pot, to flush mucus, bacteria, allergens, and other irritating things out of the sinuses.
  • Turn on a vaporizer or humidifier to increase the moisture in the air.

Chicken Soup Cure?

For centuries, people have treated postnasal drip with all kinds of home remedies. Probably the best known and most loved is hot chicken soup.

While it won’t cure you, hot soup, or any hot liquid might give you some temporary relief and comfort. It works because the steam from the hot liquid opens up your stuffy nose and throat. It also thins out mucus. And because it’s a fluid, the hot soup will help prevent dehydration, which will make you feel better too.

A hot, steamy shower might help for the same reason.

You can also try propping up your pillows at night so that the mucus doesn’t pool or collect in the back of your throat. If you have allergies, here are some other ways to reduce your triggers:

  • Cover your mattresses and pillowcases with dust mite proof covers.
  • Wash all sheets, pillowcases, and mattress covers often in hot water.
  • Use special HEPA air filters in your home. These can remove very fine particles from the air.
  • Dust and vacuum regularly.
Continued

Call your doctor if the drainage is bad smelling, you have a fever, you’re wheezing, or your symptoms are severe or last for 10 days or more. You might have a bacterial infection.

Let your doctor know right away if you notice blood in your postnasal drip. If medication doesn’t relieve your symptoms, you might need to see an ear, nose, and throat specialist (also called an otolaryngologist) for evaluation. Your doctor might want you to get a CT scan, X-rays, or other tests.

Clinics Chaika – Chaika.com

The glands of the mucous membrane of the nose, throat, lower respiratory tract, gastrointestinal tract produce mucus – a substance that moisturizes these areas and performs a protective function against pathogenic microbes. The mucous membrane of the nose produces about a quarter of all mucus in our body every day. But as a rule, we do not notice the secretion of mucus from the nose, because it mixes with saliva, flows down the back of the throat, and we swallow it. When our body produces more mucus than usual, or it becomes thicker, these processes become noticeable.

If thick or excess mucus from the nose passes through the nostrils, it is called a runny nose (rhinorrhea). When it starts to drain down the back of the nasopharynx and throat, it is called postnasal drip, postnasal drip, or postnasal syndrome.

There can be many reasons for postnasal drip.

  • Colds (ARVI).
  • Allergic rhinitis.
  • Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Often accompanied by heartburn, belching, sore throat.
  • Sinus inflammation (sinusitis).
  • Foreign bodies of the nasal cavity (most often in children).
  • Pregnancy.
  • Certain medicines, such as oral contraceptives and medicines for the treatment of arterial hypertension.
  • Curved nasal septum or other intranasal pathology.
  • Change in weather, drop in temperature or dry air.
  • Certain foods – for example, spicy foods can produce a lot of mucus.
  • Vapors of chemicals, perfumes, cleaning products, smoke or other irritants.
  • Difficulty swallowing can cause a build-up of mucus in the throat that feels like post-nasal drainage. These problems can sometimes occur with age or in connection with conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Symptoms

  • Feeling that you need to clear your throat.
  • Post-nasal drip often leads to irritation, sore throat.In this case, there is usually no infection, just mucus that drains from the nasopharynx irritates the tonsils, and in response to irritation they can swell. This can cause discomfort or a lump in the throat.
  • Cough that often gets worse at night. Post-nasal drip is one of the most common causes of coughing.
  • Too much mucus can cause hoarseness.
  • If mucus touches the Eustachian tube, discomfort in the ears may occur – clicks, a feeling of fluid in the ear, or even otitis media.

Diagnostics

The diagnosis of postnasal drip is aimed at finding its cause. This may require endoscopy of the nasal cavity, CT scan of the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses, the involvement of other specialists – for example, an allergist, therapist, gastroenterologist.

How to prepare for your visit

Think about the answers to these questions in advance:

  • How long does postnasal drip bother you?
  • What triggers the feeling of dripping?
  • Do you suffer from chronic diseases of the nasal cavity, sinuses and gastrointestinal tract?

If you have ever been examined by a gastroenterologist or underwent gastroscopy (EGDS), it is advisable to have a conclusion and the results of examinations with you.

It is worth making a list of questions for the doctor in advance.

Procedures and manipulations

Based on the results of the consultation, the doctor may additionally prescribe:

  • examination of the nasal cavity using an endoscope;
  • CT of the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses.

Rhinorrhea – qaz.wiki

A type of medical symptom in which the nasal cavity is filled with liquid mucus.

Rhinorrhea or Rhinorrhea is a free discharge of liquid mucus from the nose.The condition, commonly known as runny nose , occurs relatively frequently. Rhinorrhea is a common symptom from allergies (hay fever) or certain viral infections such as the common cold. This can be a side effect of crying, exposure to cold temperatures, cocaine abuse, or withdrawal symptoms from opioids such as methadone. Usually, there is no need to treat rhinorrhea, but there are a number of therapeutic and preventive methods.

The term was coined in 1866 and is a combination of the Greek terms rhino- (“nose”) and -rhoia (“discharge” or “flow”).

Signs and symptoms

Rhinorrhea is characterized by an excessive amount of mucus produced by the mucous membranes lining the nasal cavities. The membranes create mucus faster than it can be processed, causing mucus to accumulate in the nasal cavities. As the cavity fills, it blocks the air passage, making it difficult to breathe through the nose.Air trapped in the nasal cavities, namely the sinus cavities, cannot be released, and the resulting pressure can cause headaches or facial pain. If the sinus passage remains blocked, it can lead to sinusitis. If mucus comes out through the Eustachian tube, it can cause ear pain or an ear infection. Excess mucus that collects in the throat or bridge of the nose can cause post-nasal leakage, leading to a sore throat or cough. Additional symptoms include sneezing, nosebleeds, and nasal discharge.

Reasons

Cold temperature

Rhinorrhea is especially common during the winter months and in some seasons with low temperatures. Cold-induced rhinorrhea is due to a combination of thermodynamics and the body’s natural responses to cold weather stimuli. One of the purposes of nasal mucus is to warm the inhaled air to body temperature when it enters the body. For this to happen, the nasal cavities must be constantly covered with liquid mucus.During cold and dry seasons, the mucus lining the nasal passages tends to dry out, which means that the mucous membranes have to work harder, producing more mucus to support the lining of the cavity. As a result, the nasal cavity can fill with mucus. At the same time, when the air is exhaled, the water vapor condenses during breathing, as the warm air meets the colder external temperature near the nostrils. This causes excess water to accumulate inside the nasal cavities.In these cases, excess fluid is usually poured out through the nostrils.

Inflammatory

Infection

Rhinorrhea can be a symptom of other illnesses such as colds or flu. During these infections, the nasal mucous membranes secrete excess mucus, filling the nasal cavities. This is to prevent the infection from spreading to the lungs and respiratory tract, where it can cause much more damage. It has also been suggested that rhinorrhea is the result of viral evolution and may be a response that is not beneficial to the host, but that the virus evolved to maximize its own infectivity.Rhinorrhea caused by these infections usually occurs in circadian rhythms. During a viral infection, sinusitis (inflammation of the nasal tissue) can develop, causing the mucous membranes to secrete more mucus. Acute sinusitis is swelling of the nasal passages caused by a viral infection. Chronic sinusitis occurs when one or more nasal polyps appear. It can be caused by a deviated septum or a viral infection.

Allergies

The pollen grains of many common plants can cause an allergic reaction.

Rhinorrhea can also occur when people who are allergic to certain substances such as pollen, dust, latex, soy, shellfish or animal dander are exposed to these allergens. In people with a sensitized immune system, inhalation of one of these substances triggers the production of an antibody called immunoglobulin E (IgE), which binds to mast cells and basophils. IgE associated with mast cells is stimulated by pollen and dust, causing the release of inflammatory mediators such as histamine.In turn, this causes, among other things, inflammation and swelling of the tissues of the nasal cavities, as well as increased production of mucus. Particulate matter in polluted air and chemicals such as chlorine and detergents, which are generally allowed, can worsen the condition significantly.

Crying

Rhinorrhea is also associated with lacrimation (watery eyes), be it emotional events or eye irritation. When extra tears are formed, fluid drains through the inner corner of the eyelids, through the nasolacrimal canal into the nasal cavities.The more tears are shed, the more fluid flows into the nasal cavities, which stimulates mucus production and moisturizes any dry mucus already present in the nasal cavity. The accumulation of fluid is usually eliminated by passing mucus through the nostrils.

Non-inflammatory

Head injury

If rhinorrhea is caused by a head injury, it can be much more serious. A fracture of the base of the skull can rupture the barrier between the sinonasal cavity and the anterior cranial fossa or middle cranial fossa.This rupture can cause the nasal cavity to fill up with cerebrospinal fluid. This condition, known as cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea or cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea, can lead to a number of serious complications and possibly death if not properly treated.

Other reasons

Rhinorrhea may occur as a symptom of opioid withdrawal, accompanied by lacrimation. When this occurs after exercise, it is a symptom of exercise-induced rhinitis.Other causes include cystic fibrosis, whooping cough, nasal tumors, hormonal changes, and cluster headaches. Due to changes in clinical practice, rhinorrhea is now reported as a common side effect of oxygen intubation during colonoscopy procedures [A simple, innovative way to reduce symptoms of rhinitis after sedation during endoscopy. ”Nai-Liang Li et al., Canadian Journal of Gastroenterology, 2011 , February; volume 25 (2): pages 68–72]. Rhinorrhea can also be a side effect of certain genetic disorders, such as primary ciliary dyskinesia.

treatment

In most cases, treatment of rhinorrhea is unnecessary as it goes away on its own, especially if it is a symptom of an infection. In general, blowing your nose can help clear up mucus buildup. While blowing your nose can be a quick fix, it is likely to increase the production of mucus in your sinuses, leading to more and more mucus in your nose. Saline nasal sprays and vasoconstrictor nasal sprays can also be used as alternatives, but they can become counterproductive after a few days of use, causing rhinitis medicamentosa.

Medicines are available for recurring cases such as allergies. In cases caused by accumulation of histamine, several types of antihistamines can be purchased relatively cheaply from pharmacies.

Used literature

external references

90,000 10 Ayurvedic ways to quickly get rid of a cold

A persistent runny nose is an unpleasant phenomenon, especially when it does not stop for a long time.A runny nose has two causes.

It can be caused by low temperatures in winter or during rainy seasons. It is often accompanied by a sore throat and sometimes fever. A runny nose also occurs due to an allergic reaction. In such a case, people suffer the most from current nose. Allergic rhinitis and colds can be taken by surprise in the most unexpected cases and places.

Why runny nose and snot appear

A runny nose occurs when excess mucus builds up in your sinuses or nasal passage.The increased production of mucus by the body is a way of eliminating cold and flu viruses, irritants and allergens.

If you want to know how to get rid of a runny nose and quickly breathe again freely, follow the tips below from Ayurvedic medicine.

1. Do steam inhalation

Inhalation is one of the most popular methods of cold relief. The easiest way is to use a steam inhaler, but don’t worry if you don’t have one.A pot of hot water will be enough to help you make a simple steam inhaler at home.

Just inhale the steam coming out of the pot by leaning over it. Cover your head with a towel on top to prevent steam from escaping.

Just be careful. Do not lean too close to the boiler, as the steam can burn your face and damage your eyes. Always keep your eyes closed during the procedure. Take a break from time to time.

For a more soothing effect, you can add 1-2 teaspoons of salt or apple cider vinegar, mustard oil, or a few drops of eucalyptus oil, lavender or peppermint oil to the water.

These inhalations are also effective for the prevention of stuffy nose.

2. Drink plenty of water

Keeping your body hydrated helps loosen mucus so it doesn’t clog your nasal passage.

Warm water and other warm drinks will help with this. Try herbal teas mixed with honey or hot lemonade; hot soup or clear bone broth to quickly stop a runny nose, clear nasal congestion, and soften nasal passages.

Avoid caffeinated drinks as they dry out.

If the runny nose is accompanied by a sore throat, you can drink half a glass of warm water mixed with 1 teaspoon of lemon juice and 2 teaspoons of honey. Add honey to cooled water, but not hot.

Alternatively, you can add a quarter teaspoon of dry ginger powder or a quarter teaspoon of fresh ginger juice for a soothing effect.

Be sure to drink this 2-3 times a day for the fastest relief from the disease.

3. Season your food generously with spices

They act as natural decongestants.

Add spices such as ginger, turmeric, garlic, black pepper, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, and green chili to your food.

Black pepper contains a substance known as capsaicin, which affects the nerve fibers responsible for regulating the thickness of mucus. Initially, this will worsen your runny nose and increase the flow of snot, because thin mucus is flushed out of the nose in such cases.You will have to blow your nose a lot, but after a while you will feel relief.

Comprehensive descriptions of these plants can be found in classical Ayurvedic texts. Trikatu is made up of black pepper, long pepper and dried ginger (marich, pippali and soot) and is beneficial.

    • Maricha (black pepper) spicy to taste. It softens kapha and is easily absorbed.
    • Pippali (long pepper) dries, is an aphrodisiac, pungent in taste.It softens Vata and Kapha, and relieves shortness of breath and coughing, but should not be used for an extended period of time.
    • Nagara (dried ginger) improves appetite, is an aphrodisiac, absorbent and good for the heart, stimulates taste, is easy to digest. He, sugary, burning, softens Kapha and Vata. Green ginger is also similar in properties.

4. Use ginger tea or fresh ginger pieces with rock salt

Ginger has long been known as an effective home remedy for colds.It has both antiviral and anti-toxic, antifungal and antioxidant properties that help clear the nasal passages.

You can use ginger in two ways.

1) Drink ginger tea 2-3 times a day.

2) Cut a few pieces of ginger and eat them with a little rock salt.

Generally all plants with a pungent taste increase vata. Except for ginger and long pepper.

One of the many health benefits attributed to ginger is its purported ability to reduce inflammation, swelling and pain.The dried ginger extract and the extract enriched with gingerol have an analgesic and strong anti-inflammatory effect.

A 2013 study published in the journal Ethnopharmacology demonstrated that fresh ginger is effective against human respiratory syncytial virus (HRSV) infections. These infections cause a wide range of respiratory conditions, including the common cold.

The authors reported that fresh ginger prevents viral contamination by blocking viral contamination and internalization.

5. Eat Garlic

Garlic has strong antibacterial and antiseptic properties, which also makes it an excellent remedy for the common cold.

You can make soup by boiling 3-4 garlic cloves, minced in a glass of water. Cook for a few minutes, then strain and mix with a little salt or sugar to taste. This will help keep you warm on cold and humid days and relieve a runny nose.

A 2001 study published in the journal Advances in Therapy demonstrated in a double-blind, placebo-controlled experiment that the garlic supplement group had significantly fewer colds than the placebo group.

In addition, for colds, those who took garlic supplements recovered faster than those who were placed on the placebo group. While the underlying characteristics of garlic’s ability to exhibit antiviral properties are not well understood, a 2009 review published by The Cochrane Library argues that sulfur-containing garlic derivatives may play a role in its antiviral effects.

6. Add honey

It is no secret that honey has strong antibacterial and antiviral properties that help reduce various symptoms of the common cold.

You can stir 2 teaspoons of honey in a glass of warm water and drink it twice a day. Add a teaspoon of fresh lemon juice and ½ teaspoon of fresh ginger juice to it. It boosts your immunity and helps prevent a runny nose.

The antioxidant activity of honey is mainly due to the presence of phenolic compounds and flavonoids, although the exact mechanism of the antioxidant action is unknown. Among the proposed mechanisms are free radicals, hydrogen donation, chelation of metal ions, or their action as a substrate for radicals such as superoxide and hydroxyl.These biophenols can also interfere with the multiplication reaction or inhibit the enzymatic systems involved in the initiation reactions.

7. Try basil

Basil has strong antibacterial, antiviral, antioxidant, antifungal and strong healing properties. You can chew 3-4 basil leaves every morning before breakfast and in the evening before bed.

Basil and clove tea also works wonders in the fight against runny nose and snot.It warms your body from the inside out. Boil 8-10 basil leaves and five cloves in a glass of water for ten minutes. Allow the mixture to simmer, then add sugar to taste and drink twice a day.

Basil or Tulsi is perhaps one of the best examples of a holistic Ayurvedic approach to health.

Tulsi’s taste is hot and bitter and is said to penetrate deep tissues, dry up tissue secretions and normalize Kapha and Vata. Tulsi is recommended for the treatment of a number of painful conditions, including anxiety, cough, asthma, diarrhea, fever, dysentery, arthritis, eye conditions, otalgia, indigestion, hiccups, vomiting, stomach, heart and urinary disorders, back pain, skin conditions, ringworm lichen, malaria and insect, snake and scorpion bites.

8. Cloves

The biological activity of the clove tree was investigated on several microorganisms and parasites, including pathogenic bacteria, herpes simplex virus and hepatitis C viruses.

In addition to its antimicrobial, antioxidant, antifungal and antiviral activities, clove essential oil has anti-inflammatory, cytotoxic, repellent and anesthetic properties.

9.Turmeric

Drink warm turmeric milk.

Turmeric acts as an antidote for many health problems, including runny nose and snot. This herb has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antiviral properties that make it very effective in treating the common cold.

    • Take a cup of warm milk and add one teaspoon of turmeric powder. Drink daily before bed at night. It boosts your immunity and helps get rid of a runny nose and sore throat.
    • Soak ½ teaspoon of ground turmeric in a cup of mustard oil or sesame oil. Heat the mixture over a fire until it smokes. Inhale the smoke slowly through one nostril, then through the other. Repeat the procedure twice a day. In Ayurveda it is known as “dhumpan” or Ayurvedic herbal smoking.
    • Drink a cup of warm turmeric tea 2-3 times a day. Add ½ teaspoon turmeric powder to a cup of hot water. Let the drink brew.When it has cooled slightly, add a teaspoon of honey and enjoy. It is very soothing and treats a sore throat.

Curcumin has shown anti-influenza activity against influenza viruses PR8, h2N1 and H6N1. The results showed about 90% reduction in virus yield in cell culture using 30 μM curcumin.

Approximate EC50 value of 0.47 μM curcumin against influenza viruses. In the h2N1 as well as H6N1 subtypes, inhibition of hemagglutinin interaction reflected the direct effect of curcumin on the infectivity of viral particles.

In addition, unlike amantadine, viruses did not develop resistance to curcumin. Methoxyl derivatives of curcumin also showed no significant role in hemagglutination. These results proved the significant potential of curcumin to inhibit influenza.

8. Consume jaggery

It also helps to relieve runny nose caused by colds or allergic reactions, as it dilutes the accumulated mucus in your sinuses and flushes it out.

You can add it to your herbal tea instead of regular sugar.

9. Bury the nose with mustard oil

Mustard oil has antibiotic, antiviral and antihistamine properties.

Heat some oil in a small vessel. Place 1-2 drops in each nostril. Repeat several times a day.

This technique is mentioned in Ayurvedic texts. It helps to clear the nasal passages and airways, and also releases accumulated mucus in the upper respiratory tract.

10. Try saline nose drops

Mix ½ teaspoon salt with two cups of warm water. Using a dropper, dispense a few drops into each nostril with your head tilted. Blow the mixture back through your nose along with excess mucus. This will clear the nasal passage and soothe the sinuses.

If none of these home remedies work and symptoms of a runny nose and nose persist and are accompanied by a sore throat and fever, you should see a doctor to treat the cause of the pain.

Why runny nose, snot and sore throat appear when it gets cold

Freezing by itself does not cause people to develop these symptoms. However, it can contribute to frequent colds and runny nose during the fall and winter seasons.

Rhinoviruses (viruses that cause the common cold) thrive in cold temperatures.

According to a 2013 article in Nature News, researchers have been uncovering this fact for decades.In addition, a 2009 article published in Respiratory Medicine reported that in colder conditions, upper airway temperatures may be more favorable for rhinovirus replication, leading to increased incidence of colds during colder temperatures.

At low temperatures, our bodies can produce fewer antiviral immune signals and make us more vulnerable to infections.

At the 2013 American Society for Microbiology conference, scientists from Yale University presented their research that demonstrated how cold temperatures can compromise natural defenses against rhinoviruses.

In their study involving mice and a mouse-specific rhinovirus, they found that under colder conditions, mice produced fewer antiviral immune signals than under warmer conditions. This reduction in antiviral signals allowed infections to persist more easily at lower temperatures.

In addition, scientists have studied human respiratory tract cells grown in a cold or warm laboratory. They infected cells with rhinoviruses, which cause colds in humans.From this study, they demonstrated that infected cells grown in a warmer environment underwent programmed cell death at a faster rate than cells infected in a colder environment. Programmed cell death is a form of cell suicide that results from an immune response to prevent the spread of infection.

Low temperatures and low humidity, characteristic of the “cold” season, are associated with an increase in the incidence of acute respiratory tract infections.

US Department of Health and Human Services: The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) explains that the viruses that cause the common cold survive better in the low humidity conditions that occur during the colder months. In addition, the NIAID also reports that cold weather can cause the nasal mucosa to become drier and more susceptible to viruses that cause the common cold.

Despite the inconclusive nature of research on the relationship between exposure to cold temperatures and the common cold, it is still recommended to keep yourself warm during the cold season.

Source: https://www.theayurvedaexperience.com/blog/runny-nose-sniffles-ayurveda/

Translation Ekaterina Mishcheryakova

90,000 Mucus in the throat and nose with an unpleasant odor!

Foul-smelling mucus in the nose and throat is most often caused by a sinus infection (sinusitis) or postanasal syndrome (mucus draining down the nasopharynx into the throat). Since under these conditions, a favorable environment is created for bacteria to multiply in the mucus, which leads to the addition of a fetid odor or a nasty taste.

Chronic sinusitis is a thick discharge that smells and tastes bad. A congestion or inflammation inside the nose is a symptom of rhinitis, which is most often the cause of postnasal syndrome, when mucus flows from the nasopharynx into the throat.

The thick mucus is an ideal breeding ground for the anaerobic bacteria responsible for harsh bad breath (known as halitosis). Dentists say brushing your teeth does not eliminate bad breath caused by mucus draining from the nasopharynx.

Foul-smelling mucus associated with a temporary cold or allergic reaction can be effectively treated with a variety of home remedies that focus on weakening, thinning, and drying the secretions. A well-known remedy is to drink plenty of warm drinks, such as soups and herbal teas.

Treating sources of excess mucus production and eliminating the proliferation of anaerobic bacteria that thrive in this type of environment is the best way to prevent and get rid of mucus or bad breath associated with runoff into the nasopharynx.

Although rare, some may develop green or black crusts inside the nose that bleed and produce an unpleasant odor. This is a symptom of a disease such as chronic atrophic rhinitis (ozena).

Sinusitis is a common cause of an inflamed and blocked nasal passage, and can cause foul-smelling mucus. This is a condition in which the lining of the paranasal sinuses becomes inflamed. The inflammation and swelling is usually caused by a viral infection and often improves within two or three weeks.

This is a very common condition. In temperate countries, it affects about 5-15% of the adult population each year.

Sinuses (paranasal sinuses) are small air pockets that are located in the forehead, cheekbones, and eyes.

They protect the body by trapping germs. Bacteria or allergens can produce too much mucus, which can block the opening of the sinuses. This is how most people will have a runny nose with colds or allergies.

The accumulation of mucus can encourage microbial growth in the sinus cavity, leading to bacterial or viral infections. Most are viral and may go away in a week or two without treatment. An accumulation of secretions in the nasal passage and throat can cause bad breath and foul-smelling mucus.

Corticosteroid drops or spray may be used to treat these inflammations. Corticosteroids, also referred to simply as steroids, are a group of medications that can help reduce inflammation.If swelling or inflammation persists, your doctor may prescribe another treatment option.

Other symptoms, such as a stuffy nose, can be treated with a warm compress, and pain can be relieved with pain relievers. Antibiotics can sometimes be used to treat a mild bacterial infection that accompanies sinus inflammation.

Signs and Symptoms:

  • Thick and greenish discharge from the nose
  • Nasal congestion that causes difficulty breathing
  • Pain, swelling, tenderness and pressure around the eyes, cheeks, nose and forehead
  • Severe headache
  • Ear pressure
  • Fever and fatigue.

Tonsillitis

Also a possible cause is tonsillitis – an inflammation of the tonsils – the oval pads of tissue at the back of the throat. Symptoms include swollen tonsils, sore throat, difficulty swallowing, and tender lymph nodes on the sides of the neck.

Tonsillitis is often caused by a virus, and a bacterial infection can sometimes cause swelling. The correct treatment depends on the underlying cause of the condition. Therefore, in order to receive proper treatment, it is necessary to make a diagnosis quickly and accurately.A doctor may order surgery when bacterial tonsillitis occurs too often, does not respond to other treatment options, or has other serious complications.

The inflammation can affect other areas of the throat, such as the adenoids and lingual tonsils. There are various variations of the disease: acute, recurrent and chronic course. In all three cases, there are sore throats and problems with swallowing.

Postnasal syndrome

Drainage of mucus from the nasopharynx, also known as postnasal syndrome, occurs when there is excess secretion of the nasal mucosa.Excess mucus builds up in the throat or back of the nose. It is responsible for hydration and also helps trap and destroy foreign organisms such as bacteria and viruses before they can cause infection.

With normal secretion, mucus is invisible, it mixes with saliva and flows harmlessly behind the throat, and the person swallows it. When the body produces more of it and it gets thicker than usual, it becomes more noticeable. This usually occurs with inflammation, most often during rhinitis.

The accumulated mucus also provides a good breeding ground for odor-causing bacteria. When excess secretion comes out of the nostrils, it causes a runny nose when it flows down the back of the throat – it is called postnasal syndrome.

The problem can be caused by colds, flu, allergies, sinus infections, pregnancy, or changes in the weather.

Depending on the diagnosis, treatment options include:

  • Antibiotic for the treatment of bacterial infection
  • Surgery for chronic sinusitis
  • Allergy medication and spray
  • Antacid when gastroesophageal reflux disease is causing the problem.

Polyps of the nose

Nasal polyps are soft, painless, irregular growths on the lining of the nose. They appear as a result of chronic inflammation due to asthma, recurrent infection, allergic reactions, and drug sensitivity or immune disorders.

Small polyps are asymptomatic, but large masses or a group of them can lead to breathing difficulties due to blockage of the nasal passage, and in some cases also loss of sense of smell and frequent infections.Although they are more common in adults, they can affect people at any age.

A doctor may prescribe medication to shrink or eliminate nasal polyps, but surgery is sometimes required to remove them. They may come back frequently even after consistent treatment. Unlike polyps, which form in the colon or bladder, nasal polyps are rarely cancerous. They are also not painful to touch.

Symptoms:

  • Runny nose
  • Irritant snoring
  • Decreased sense of smell
  • Severe headaches and facial pain
  • Pain in the upper teeth
  • Postnasal syndrome.

Inflammatory nasal discharge in adults, odorless

In adults, a common cause of foul-smelling mucus is rhinitis, which is an inflammation of the nasal passage. This condition is known to cause runny nose and nasal discharge.

Rhinitis can be temporary when it is caused by an allergic reaction, or a chronic condition when symptoms last for more than six weeks. In moderate cases of congestion, the condition can improve on its own, in chronic or severe cases, it is necessary for a doctor to diagnose the condition and prescribe treatment.

In an adult, another common cause of the problem can be sinusitis – an inflammation of the sinuses of the nose. Sinuses are air-filled cavities located behind the forehead, eyes, cheekbones, and bridge of the nose. They filter the air we breathe, using mucus to trap dirt, bacteria, and other potentially harmful particles.

Sinuses become inflamed or swollen during infections or allergic reactions. The accumulation of mucus creates a favorable environment for bacteria to grow and multiply, resulting in a foul-smelling bacterial infection.

Infection of the sinuses is manifested by the following symptoms:

  • Nasal congestion
  • Bad breath
  • Sore throat
  • Thick yellow or green mucus appearing in the nose or throat
  • Cough, especially at night
  • Dullness of taste and smell.

Mild cases of the problem in adults can be relieved on their own. In severe cases caused by allergic rhinitis, sinusitis, or postnasal syndrome, immediate medical attention is recommended.People with allergies or weak immune systems are most likely to develop a sinus infection.

Treatment involves not only controlling and managing symptoms, but also getting rid of the underlying cause of the disease. For allergic rhinitis or sinus inflammation, it is important that a doctor diagnoses the problem and prescribes the necessary medications. In this way, the risk of complications can be minimized.

After a medical examination, treatment will depend on the underlying cause of the illness or the severity of the symptoms.

Antibiotics

For sinusitis caused by a viral infection, antibiotic treatment is not required. An oral antibiotic may be used for bacterial infection. It can be suspected for facial pain, pus-like nasal discharge, or other symptoms that persist for more than a week. An infection can also be suspected when the condition does not respond to other medications.

Acute bacterial infection is treated with antibiotic therapy.Antibiotics work by killing or preventing the growth of bacteria that can cause sinus infections. When they are used for treatment, it must be remembered that:

  • Number of days of antibiotic use depends on general health
  • The choice of a drug depends on the body’s response to it
  • You can use the medicine with another medicine, such as decongestant

Decongestant

A nasal spray can quickly help relieve congestion and swelling.There are many such products on the market.

But they also have their drawbacks, through which they cannot be used for more than a few days. Most decongestant sprays contain the preservative benzalkonium chloride, which causes toxic reactions in the nose, eyes, ears, and lungs and can worsen the symptoms of allergic rhinitis. Thus, immediately a drug with this substance in the composition will be effective, but when the symptoms return within a day or two, they will be worse than before use.

Steroid Nasal Spray

Nasal steroid sprays are commonly used products that are used to relieve swelling in the nose. It can also be used for allergies such as hay fever. Steroid sprays are also good for relieving symptoms of inflammation caused by other conditions.

Corticosteroid nasal spray reduces swelling and mucus in the nasal passage. It can also be effective in relieving associated symptoms such as a runny nose, sneezing, congestion, itching, or swelling of the nasal passage.

Pain reliever anti-inflammatory drugs

Paracetamol, aspirin, ibuprofen, and other NSAIDs can be used to help fight fever and headaches that can accompany swelling and inflammation. Various brands of pain relievers can be found in pharmacies.

Surgery for chronic sinusitis

Sometimes surgery can be performed due to a complication of sinusitis, which can include pus in and outside the sinus.The purpose of the operation is to drain the sinuses:

Surgery does not always completely fix the problem, some people will need a second operation. When treating a swollen, infected nasal passage, surgery becomes more effective when used in conjunction with another medication.

Folk remedies

Peppermint oil.

It is suitable for oral and topical use and has antimicrobial properties.Along with lavender, peppermint oil may be one of the most versatile essential oils in the world.

Drinking warm liquids can also help maintain your body temperature.

and relieve some of the symptoms of the common cold, such as sneezing and runny nose.

Salt.

You can also try rinsing, or even better, rinsing the nasopharynx with salt. It has strong antibiotic, anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that help fight bacterial infections in the mouth.

Ginger.

While the root of this plant does not help stop the excretion process itself, it can help flush out mucus that remains after the disease is cured. It is an ancient remedy that has been used in many medicines for colds and coughs.

Raw honey.

It is an antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antifungal home remedy. It also contains antioxidants and flavonoids, and not only reduces mucus secretion, but also soothes irritated airways.

This article is for informational purposes, in more detail about the prevention of ENT diseases (specified in this publication), you can tell the Otorhinolaryngologist of the Society’s Polyclinic.

In your free time, call the call center 8 (495) 356 3003 and make an appointment with an ENT specialist.

Polyclinic LLC “Innovative Technologies” thanks you for that,

that you took the time to read this information.

90,000 Stuffy nose? Breathe freely with yoga.

Question : I often have a feeling of stuffiness in my nose and chest. How does nasal congestion affect the general well-being of a person, and is there a way to somehow influence this?

Sadhguru : Your sinuses are like a very complex plumbing system. The “blockages and leaks” formed in it depend on various factors. Typically, people experience nasal congestion especially badly when they lie down, but this can happen in many other cases as well.How clean your sinuses are and how well your body fluids are balanced, especially in the head area, determines many things, including how your brain works, how you feel in general, your sense of balance, your mental acuity, and the acuity of all five senses.

Yoga practices

Keeping your sinuses balanced and clean goes a long way. How can we achieve this? If you do kapalabhati [the shakti chalana kriya part of the shakti chalana kriya taught in the Shunya intensive program] effectively for a period of time, it will bring the necessary balance.

If you want to do the preparatory step, you can do jala neti to reduce the amount of mucus in your body. But this practice must be done correctly. Our hatha yoga teachers will be able to teach you this practice.

Since excess mucus creates sinus congestion, one way to deal with the congestion is to reduce mucus levels. Another aspect is to understand why a certain area of ​​the sinuses is blocked. Modern medicine solves this problem with tablets that chemically dry liquids.If you take antihistamines, they dry up all fluids in the system indiscriminately. But these fluids are essential. The correct functioning of the human mechanism, especially all five senses, is determined by how the fluid moves in the body. Therefore, unless you have an allergy that requires medication to keep it under control, then the use of pills that affect the reduction of fluids is not recommended.

Fight against allergic reactions

Sinus congestion can also indicate an allergic reaction.If you have dust or any irritant in your home, you may have sinus congestion. So one of the solutions is to keep the house clean, and the other is to develop the necessary resistance to allergens.

A simple way to achieve this: eat 1 spoonful of yogurt and 1 spoonful of honey after meals and refrain from drinking water for the next 1.5-2 hours. This will lower the level of eosinophils in the system, and your sensitivity to allergens will be drastically reduced. But this will happen if yoghurt is made from only one cow’s milk.This may not work with store-bought yogurt produced for mass consumption, where milk from thousands of cows is blended.

Harm of dairy products

In the modern world, people drink milk that is produced on factory farms, and the main part of the beneficial properties when consuming such milk is lost. In fact, consuming such a complex mixture of genetic substances from so many different animals does more harm than good. If you are consuming an animal product, at least it must come from one animal.If you stop consuming factory-made dairy products, the mucus problems in your body will most likely disappear within two weeks.

Another simple thing you can start doing now to clear mucus is to drink some warm water with honey in the morning as soon as you wake up.

So, you can stop eating factory dairy products, drinking warm water with honey, and doing a certain amount of kapalabhati (if you were initiated into shakti chalana kriya), surya namaskar or surya kriya.If you create a sufficient amount of ear and samat prana in your system by doing these practices, the problems of excess mucus will disappear. Also, to get rid of mucus in the sinuses, it is not recommended to take medication.

Hatha yoga and jala neti classes in Moscow.

From November 28, 2019 to December 1, Isha Hatha Yoga classes will be held in Moscow. Including Surya Kriya and Jala Neti classes. You can register at the link https://ishayoga.ru/

Editor’s Note: The ebook Food Body looks at the kind of foods the body is most comfortable with and explores the most appropriate ways of consuming such foods.The 33-page booklet is a first step to tune into your body and figure out what suits it best. The book is available on a “name your price” basis. Pay as you wish or click “Claim for Free”.

A version of this article was originally published in Isha Forest Flower December 2015. Download as PDF on a “name your price, no minimum” basis or subscribe to the print version.

90,000 Postnasal syndrome: what people with allergies should know

Postnasal syndrome is excess mucus that has formed in the nasal cavity down the back of the nasopharynx and throat.

This is a common occurrence that affects almost everyone at some point in their lives. After all, the glands in the nose and throat constantly produce mucus for:

  • infection control;
  • moisturizing the nasal membranes;
  • filtering out foreign particles.

Usually you swallow mucus without even realizing it.

When your body starts producing too much mucus, it becomes too thick and you can feel the mucus accumulate in the back of your throat.You may also feel it running down your throat from your nose. This is called postnasal drip syndrome or postnasal drip syndrome.

Common manifestations of postnasal syndrome include:

  • feeling that you need to constantly clear your throat or swallow;
  • cough that is worse at night;
  • nausea from excess mucus moving into your stomach;
  • pain, sore throat;
  • bad breath.

90 100 Causes of post-nasal leakage

Postnasal syndrome can be caused by various reasons.

Allergy manifested by rhinitis is one of the most common factors. If you are diagnosed with allergies, it is best for you to avoid its triggers. It is worth talking to your doctor about how to prevent this disease.

Another common cause is the curvature of the nasal septum. When the thin wall of cartilage between your nostrils (septum) is displaced, one nasal passage becomes narrower. This can interfere with the proper outflow of mucus, as a result of which postnasal syndrome occurs.

Other causes of post-nasal leakage:

In some cases, the problem causing postnasal syndrome is not an excess of mucus, but an inability to clear the throat. Problems with swallowing or stomach reflux can lead to a buildup of mucus in your throat – and it will feel like post-nasal syndrome.

Postnasal syndrome home treatment

You can use medications and home treatments to relieve postnasal symptoms:

  • Nasal drops can help relieve congestion and relieve postnasal syndrome.However, these drugs become addictive and can be used for a maximum of 7-10 days.
  • If post-nasal leakage is caused by an allergy, antihistamines may help. But they must be used after consulting a doctor.

Saline nasal sprays and sinus irrigation devices can also help clear the nasal passages and alleviate the manifestations of postnasal syndrome.

  • If you have persistent problems with nasal congestion, your doctor may prescribe a cortisone steroid nasal spray.
  • Sleeping with your head up can also help drain mucus properly.

To prevent postnasal syndrome as well as to treat it, it is important to maintain water balance. Drinking a warm or hot liquid – tea or chicken broth – will help thin mucus and prevent dehydration.

And, as always, remember to drink plenty of water. It also looses mucus and keeps your nasal passages hydrated, relieving discomfort.

How to reduce the impact of allergens

The best way to prevent allergic post-nasal leakage is to minimize exposure to allergens.Here are some tips:

If you experience other symptoms at the same time as postnasal syndrome, seek medical advice.

Do not hesitate to see a doctor

Some symptoms may indicate that you need to see a doctor immediately. Such manifestations include:

  • mucus with a strong odor;
  • fever;
  • wheezing.

These may be symptoms of a bacterial infection that requires the use of antibiotics.

However, a change in the color of the mucus does not always indicate an infection. Yellow or green mucus is a sign of an immune response as neutrophils fight infection: these cells contain a green enzyme that can stain mucus.

If excessive mucus is due to a deviated septum, corrective surgery is the only treatment for postnasal syndrome. This surgery (called septoplasty) lifts and straightens the nasal septum. To do this, it is necessary to remove some parts of the nasal septum.

If you think gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or problems with swallowing may be causing your postnasal sensation, your doctor may test other health problems and prescribe medications.

Rinofluimucil

Acute rhinitis

Acute rhinitis is an inflammation of the mucous membrane of the nasal strip caused by various reasons.
The most common form is infectious rhinitis.The most common name among patients is 90,067 runny nose.

Potential risks to patients

Acute rhinitis may carry risks for the patient:
  • With an unfavorable course, it can turn into a chronic one, which is characterized by a longer and more severe course.
  • With prolonged colds, there is a violation of the natural self-cleaning of the sinuses.
  • The outflow of mucus stops, mucus begins to accumulate in the sinuses and, when the infection joins, it becomes purulent.
  • If the inflammatory process from the nasal cavity moves into the sinuses, the mucous membrane swells and the openings connecting the sinuses to the nasal cavity are closed, which aggravates the condition.

Acute sinusitis

Acute sinusitis is an inflammation of the mucous membrane of one or more paranasal sinuses. It can occur as a complication in acute rhinitis, acute respiratory viral infections, other infectious diseases, as well as after injuries to the facial area.

Both viruses and bacteria can cause sinusitis.

The main symptoms are heaviness in the paranasal or frontal region, pain with sudden head movements, thick nasal discharge, fever.

Treatment of sinusitis includes sinus drainage and antimicrobial therapy, viral sinusitis does not require antibiotics.

Potential risks to patients

As a rule, complications of sinusitis have greater health and life risks than the disease itself.

Infectious complications of sinusitis can manifest in the soft tissues of the orbit, which ultimately leads to the formation of phlegmon or abscess.

Pathogenic microorganisms with the blood flow, as well as through the fiber, move to the cranium, where a purulent focus is formed.

Clinically, it manifests itself in the form of various brain abscesses, purulent inflammatory diseases of the meninges.

How to avoid complications?

First of all, it is necessary to treat acute conditions in a timely and comprehensive manner.

It is important to ensure the prevention of stagnation of mucus in the nasal passages and sinuses, to avoid the addition of infection.

.