Diseases and disorders of the ears, nose, throat, head, and neck negatively impact the lives of millions around the world. Our health information, created by our member physicians, provides a basic overview of diagnoses and treatment for many of these conditions.  
 
   
Sinus & Nasal Disorders
Congestion, allergic rhinitis, a deviated septum, and mouth sores are just a few of the varied health problems that occur in this region of the body. Information about ways you can relieve symptoms at home and when you should see a physician can be found in this section.
 
     
 
01.  What is Sinusitis?
02.  Preventing Sinusitis
03.  What Causes Post-Nasal Drip?

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01.  What is Sinusitis?

Acute bacterial sinusitis is an infection of the sinus cavities caused by bacteria. It is usually preceded by a cold, allergy attack, or irritation by environmental pollutants. Unlike a cold or allergy, bacterial sinusitis requires a physician's diagnosis and treatment with an antibiotic to cure the infection and prevent future complications. Normally, mucus collecting in the sinuses drains into the nasal passages. When you have a cold or allergy attack, your sinuses become inflamed and are unable to drain. This can lead to congestion and infection. Diagnosis of acute sinusitis is based on a physical examination and a discussion of your symptoms. Your doctor also may use X-rays of your sinuses or obtain a sample of your nasal discharge to test for bacteria.

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02.  Preventing Sinusitis

As always, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. To avoid developing sinusitis during a cold or allergy attack, keep your sinuses clear by:
 
Using an oral decongestant or a short course of nasal spray decongestant
Gently blowing your nose, blocking one nostril while blowing through the other
Drinking plenty of fluids to keep nasal discharge thin
   
Avoiding air travel. If you must fly, use a nasal spray decongestant before
  takeoff to prevent blockage of the sinuses allowing mucus to drain
   
Avoiding contact with things that trigger allergy attacks. If you cannot, use
  the over-the-counter or prescription antihistamines and/or prescription nasal
  spray to control allergy attacks.
   
Allergy testing, followed by appropriate allergy treatments, may increase your
  tolerance of allergy-causing substances
 
 
 
 
 
 
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03.  What Causes Post-Nasal Drip?

The glands in your nose and throat continually produce mucus (one to two quarts a day). It moistens and cleans the nasal membranes, humidifies air, traps and clears inhaled foreign matter, and fights infection. Although mucus normally is swallowed unconsciously, the feeling that it is accumulating in the throat or dripping from the back of your nose is called post-nasal drip. This feeling can be caused by excessive or thick secretions or by throat muscle and swallowing disorders.

 
 
 
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