Understanding Nasal allergies

Allergies are caused by substances called allergens and it is one of the common health problems. There are two types of allergic symptoms, one that is caused during particular season which is seasonal and the other that is caused all year long.

The most common allergens include,

• Air-borne agents (from ragweed, grass and trees)
• Furs and feathers from animals
• Dust mites
• Pests
• Certain foods
• Mold

Allergens are always not the same and not harmful for everyone but when a particular person has allergy the body thinks these allergens are harmful and create antibodies that creates the allergic reaction in the host body.

Nasal allergies – Causes, Signs and Treatment:

Causes:

When the body attacks the allergens with particular antibodies that are attached to mast cells this releases histamine and few other chemicals which thereby irritate the nasal tissue causing Nasal allergy symptoms in the particular individual. This may also lead to other health issues like asthma.

Signs:

Since the allergy affects the nasal tissue it causes physical changes like swelling of the tissue that leads to nose blockage or itchy nose. In some cases fluid discharges may occur from the nose or even down the back of the throat. This signs may occur in case of asthma and sinus problems where it is also related to the nasal allergy symptoms.

The most common symptoms include,

• Nasal congestion
• Watery discharge from the nose
• Postnasal drip or dripping at the back of the throat
• Sneezing and coughing or sore throat
• Inflammation in the nose
• Swelling of eyes, redness and watery eyes
• Itchiness of throat, eyes ,nose and even ears
• Ear congestion
• Head ache
• Sinus pain and swelling

Allergic Rhinitis/Hay fever/ Allergic sinusitis:

Allergic reactions to specific allergens are often termed as Allergic rhinitis or Hay fever. Seasonal allergic rhinitis is mostly caused by pollens and it thus occurs with the change of seasons. According to AAAAI, 10 to 30 percent of the worldwide population may also have allergic rhinitis or Hay fever.

The basic symptoms of allergic rhinitis includes the symptoms of common nasal allergies along with dark circles, eczema symptoms like dry and itchy skin that can blister and weep, hives and excessive fatigue. Fever is not a symptom of Hay fever. The constant headache and fatigue is a symptom of long term exposure to allergens. Allergic sinusitis is the inflammation of the cavities and membranes in and around nasal passages due to allergies.

Types of Allergic Rhinitis:

• Seasonal - That usually occurs during particular seasons like spring and fall season and mostly they are caused by outdoor allergens like tree pollens.
• Perennial - This can occur all year round and are mostly caused by indoor allergens like dust mites and pet dander.

Risk factors for allergic rhinitis:

Certain conditions that can worsen the effects of allergens includes,

• Cigarette smoke
• Air pollutants
• Humidity
• Cold temperatures
• Chemicals
• Hairspray
• Perfumes
• Fumes

Diagnosis of Allergic rhinitis (Hay fever):

If you have minor allergies, the skin doctors will do a physical exam (allergy testing) which includes skin prick test where your doctor will place several substances onto your skin to see how your body reacts to each one. If you have allergy to those particular substance red bumps will appear, that’s when your doctor will come up with treatment and prevention plans.

In certain cases a blood test is conducted, which is otherwise called Radioallergosorbent test (RAST). It measures the amount of immunoglobulin E antibodies to particular allergens in blood.

Treatment of Allergic rhinitis (Hay fever):

The treatment of Hay fever includes providing anti histamines, decongestants, eye drops and nasal sprays recommended by your doctor. In certain cases your doctor may suggest taking immunotherapy or allergy shots. Also SLIT, (Sublingual immunotherapy) this involves placing a tablet containing a mixture of several allergens under your tongue.

Other than the above mentioned certain home remedies like using specific filter based air conditioners or dehumidifiers at home for people who get affected by seasonal allergens. Also people who are affected by indoor allergens should clean the house properly and wash sheets and blankets with hot water above 54.4 Degree Celsius.

Foreign objects inside your child’s nose - Immediate steps you should take

Little children always carry big curiosity with them. This makes them explore things and the world around. Being as innocent as they are, they tend to taste the objects they shouldn’t and place the tiny things in their nose, mouth, and ears, which they shouldn’t.

Foreign objects in a child’s nose and ear – are nightmares of a parent and family members. Starting from pencils to pieces of rubber, foreign objects in the nose can be worrisome.

But there are a few objects such as pairing magnets, batteries of wrist watches and sometimes food that gets stuck in the nose can disrupt the breathing process. In a few severe instances, these objects can damage the nasal passage.

How to prevent children from placing foreign objects in their nose?

Parents should keep the tiny objects away from children and keep an eye on them always. But it is nearly impossible to keep a watch on children around the clock. Then what should you do? What are the safe steps to follow when you realize there is a foreign object inside your child’s nose? When to seek medical help?

They are a bunch of questions. We will answer all of them. Stay with us till the end and prevent such incidents.

How to find if there is a foreign object inside your child’s nose?

When a child inserts big objects such as pencils and pens, it is easy to remove them and mostly no medical intervention is required. But the problem occurs when the object is tiny and could not be found instantly. Here are a few symptoms of foreign objects in nose.

• Difficulty in breathing -

When the object is stuck inside the nostril, your child may rub the nostril and find it hard to breathe naturally. And, this occurs frequently.

• Crying for no apparent reason -

Crying for no reason is a communication method for Infants who could not vocalize their difficulties. If your child is crying for no particular reason, check their nose and ears.

• Nasal discharge -

In a few cases, nasal discharge could be observed but this occurs only when the placed objects cause certain degree damage to the nasal passage.

How do you react when you find the foreign object?

It is easy to panic when you find an object inside your child’s nose. But you shouldn’t panic. We know it is easier said than done but panicking and trying to remove the object on your own makes it even worse. Here is what you should do instead.

• Find tweezers and slowly insert inside the nose and try to pull the object out.
• Try to hold the object and pull it backwards.

How ENT specialists will treat foreign bodies in nose?

Once you reach the ENT hospital, the nose doctor conducts a physical examination to determine the object and use nasal spray or drops that have anesthetic properties. This will ease the pain if there is any.

ENT specialists will have equipment that help them easily reach the object, grasp or scoop it out. If it is not working, they will employ suction machines that suck the object as delicately as possible.

Followed by the removal, the specialist or your pediatrician might prescribe antibiotics that prevent any infection further.

Tips to protect your children from foreign objects

No matter how watchful an eye you have, it is not possible to keep your children under scan always. Here are a few tips that you can follow.

If your children are above 4 or 5 years old, explain to them why they shouldn’t keep objects inside their nose.

If your children are below 3, keep small objects away from them. Keep small objects, toys with tiny spares, magnetic jewelry, and other objects on the tables above 4 feet.

Take these preventive measures and reach out to your nearest ENT specialty clinic if you find a foreign object in your child’s nose.

Earwax Blockage - Everything You Should Know

Earwax, medically known as cerumen, is a waxy oil that is produced by earwax glands. This is to protect the inner parts of the ears, from the microorganisms, dust, and foreign objects. After the secretion, this oil gets hardened and finds its way out of the ears naturally.

What Causes Earwax Buildup?

Earwax buildup occurs when there is excessive secretion of cerumen than what’s necessary and also when the hardened oil fails to find its way out. Both the cases can lead to earwax buildup, ear block, and temporary hearing loss, eventually. Sometimes people who are cleaning might accidentally push the wax further deep causing the blockage.

Signs and Symptoms of Earwax Blockages

Buzzing or ringing sound in the ear is a common sign of earwax blockage. You might lose hearing ability temporarily based on the percentage of the block.

Becoming aware of the inner voice when you talk, a sense of fullness in the ear, and sometimes earache are the other signs of it.

Earwax Buildup in Children

Earaches are associated with infants and children more than the adults. In children, you can find earwax buildup by checking for the darker brown substance inside the ear walls. Using ear swabs, however sensitive they are, can damage ear canal linings, and eardrums in extreme cases.  Consulting an ENT specialist and seeking assistance is a sensible thing to do.

Earwax and the Infection -

Earwax blockage will become an infection only when the buildup stays inside the ear walls for too long. Ear infections can cause excruciating pain and such an ear infection in children can become a nightmare to live for both the child and to the parents.

This pain could not be subsidised, and a discharge from the ear also could be observed in the case of infections caused by earwax buildup. Other symptoms include fever, coughing, and giddiness.

Treatment for Earwax Blockage and Infection -

Followed by the initial diagnosis at the ENT hospital, the ear specialist uses an otoscope that helps them to see the inner ear.

Certain oils or hydrogen peroxide to soften the earwax block. Then the ear doctor may use irrigation, a technique where water is sent like a stream, inside the ear to clean the block. Curette, a curved instrument, is also used to clean earwax blockage.

Earwax removal is a simple process. Once the block is cleared, it is important to follow the after-care instructions by your doctor. Ear irrigation kits are also available as the over-the-counter kits. You can practice as instructed by your ENT specialist.

Softening and irrigation techniques should work. However, sometimes the softeners could only melt the outer layer of the wax and force removing might cause damage. If your condition is not improving, consult your doctor.

How to Avoid Earwax Blockages

Generally self-care and hygiene are the remedies for earwax blockages. But it is essential to see your ENT specialist periodically to maintain ear hygiene. It becomes imperative if your ear glands produce more cerumen.

It is common to see people using ear swabs to remove the earwax buildup. Using a soft and sensitive ear swab once or twice a week might help you keep your ears clean but in order to remove a blockage, you should reach out to an ENT clinic.

If you feel there is a block inside your ear and you could not hear properly, do not try to insert any swab, paper rolls or any other item. They will only cause more damage.

Even though earache, ear discharge, and the sense of fullness are the symptoms of earwax blockage, there are other conditions that show the similar symptoms.

The Takeaways -

Earwax buildup is a common issue in people who secrete more cerumen. This can happen in both children and adults. If you know how to use the irrigation method, try it periodically based on your doctor’s recommendation. In children, consult your ENT doctor to get the wax removed.

Earwax is useful for your ears. It keeps them clean, and protects in many ways. Once the work is done, the wax gets washed away by the body. And, all this happens naturally. Follow your doctor’s recommendation to keep your ears clean.

Things to know about Nosebleeds

Nosebleeds are normally frightening and can last for a few seconds to about fifteen minutes or more. During a nosebleed, blood can flow out from one or both nostrils and the flow may be either heavy or light. It occurs due to the breakage of blood vessels in the septum(wall between the nostrils).This rupture can happen due to blowing of dry air, injury to the nose or scratching of nostrils with sharp fingernails. Nose bleeds are also called as epistaxis.

Single or rare short episodes of nosebleeds are usually not dangerous. However, if they last for more than twenty minutes or occur after an injury, medical intervention is recommended.

Types of Nosebleeds

• Anterior Nosebleeds-This type of nosebleed occurs when the blood vessels in the front region of the nose break.
• Posterior Nosebleeds-These nosebleeds occur from the back or the deep inner part of the nose causing blood to flow back down the throat. This type of nosebleed is likely to be more dangerous than anterior nosebleeds.

Risk Factors

Nosebleeds are most likely to affect-

• Children aged between two and ten years
• Elderly persons
• Pregnant ladies
• People who regularly take medicines like anticoagulants and aspirin
• Patients who have blood clotting disorders like haemophilia

Causes of Nosebleeds

• Dryness of the nasal membranes
• Dry air leading to crusting, itching and irritation
• Medicines like antihistamines and decongestants for colds, allergies and sinus problems
• Frequent blowing of the  nose
• Deviated nasal septum
• Sinusitis
• Presence of foreign objects which tend to get stuck in the nose
• Harmful chemical irritants
• Reactions due to allergies
• Trauma/injury to the nose
• Repeated episodes of sneezing
• Intentional picking of the nose
• High dosage of drugs like aspirin
• Infection in the Upper Respiratory Tract(URT)
• Blowing of cold air
• Health conditions like high blood pressure, bleeding/blood clotting disorders and cancer

Diagnosis of Nosebleeds

The following tests may be done to investigate the cause of nosebleeds-

• Complete Blood Count (CBC)
• Partial Thromboplastin Time(PTT) which a test to determine blood clotting time
• Nasal CT Scan
• Endoscopy of the nose
• Facial and nasal x-ray

Treatment of Nosebleeds

Normally, anterior nosebleeds may be treated at home. For this, the soft portion of the nose must be squeezed while sitting in the upright position. The nostrils may be closed for about ten minutes after leaning forward slightly and breathing through the mouth. It is important not to lie down the duration of the nosebleed as it can lead to swallowing of the blood causing stomach irritation. The nostrils must be released after about ten minutes to check if the bleeding has stopped. If not,these steps may be repeated a couple of times if there is continuous bleeding.

Other alternative treatments include-

• Giving cold compression over the nose bridge
• Using nasal decongestant sprays for closing the small blood vessels

If the bleeding does not stop with these options, it is necessary to seek medical intervention as there may be a posterior nosebleed.

• Foreign objects causing nosebleeds are removed by ent doctors.
• Frequent or persistent nosebleeds are treated by a clinical process called cauterization. In the process, the blood vessels in the nose are burnt by using a heating element or compound like silver nitrate that removes the tissue. Subsequently, the nose is packed with cotton, gauze or foam. Balloon catheters may also be used to put pressure on the blood vessels and stop the bleeding.

Prevention of Nosebleeds

• People residing in dry areas can use a humidifier at home to keep the surrounding air moist.
• Picking the nose often especially with sharp nails should be avoided.
• Adults and seniors should cautiously limit the dosage of drugs like aspirin as it dilutes the blood and results in nosebleeds.
• Medicines like antihistamines and nasal decongestants must be used in moderation as they are likely to create dryness in the nose.
• Nasal passages may be kept moist by using safe nasal sprays and gels.

Summary

Nosebleeds are rarely serious and may be treated easily. Posterior nosebleeds are more dangerous than anterior nosebleeds. But, if there are periodic occurrences or heavy bleeding, it is essential to seek clinical attention to avoid health problems like anemia. Hence, it is best recommended that persistent or more serious cases are handled by ENT (Ear, Nose and Throat) specialists.

How to deal with Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a common but serious sleep disorder characterized by interruption of normal breathing due to blockage of throat airways. It is usually accompanied by lethargy during the daytime. Many people underestimate the problem and merely consider it as loud snoring. Most patients with sleep apnea are likely to witness such short breathing pauses multiple times during night though they may not be aware of it.

The predominant effects of sleep apnea include a decline in mental alertness, energy levels and productivity compared to the normal thresholds during the day. Chronic sleep deprivation caused by this disorder leads to excessive daytime sleepiness, poor reflexes, impaired concentration and increased risk of accidents. It can also result in mood swings, irritability and depression. In the long run, this condition causes dangerous consequences on physical health including obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease and liver problems.
Symptoms of Sleep Apnea

• Repeated episodes of acute loud snoring every night
• Incidences of choking, snorting and gasping
• Frequent breathing pauses
• Sudden awakening with shortness of breath
• Drowsiness and exhaustion during the day despite long hours of sleep

Less common signs include morning headaches, mouth dryness, restless sleep, unusual irritability, memory issues and frequent visits to bathrooms during the night. It is important to note that sleep apnea affects the quality of sleep resulting in extreme fatigue and sleepiness, unlike normal snoring.

Sleep Apnea Treatment

Though the diagnosis of sleep apnea could be slightly difficult, it is a treatable condition. The cure for snoring in less severe cases can be done by adopting simple lifestyle changes –

• Losing weight- Losing weight can be beneficial for people who are overweight. They are likely to have extra tissue at the back of the throat which blocks the airways and prevents proper breathing.
• Quitting smoking-It is advisable to stop smoking as this habit increases inflammation and fluid retention in the throat region and the upper airways.
• Exercising regularly – Apart from aiding weight loss, physical activities and exercises can positively impact the quality and amount of sleep in individuals.
• Avoiding certain substances-Drinks like alcohol and certain drugs like sedatives and other sleeping pills taken before bedtime can interfere with the breathing process as they tend to relax the throat muscles. Likewise, heavy meals and caffeine products must be avoided before sleeping.
• Maintaining sleep schedules-It is important to maintain and follow a regular schedule as it provides better mental relaxation and promotes good quality sleep. People who have adequate sleep have lower attacks of sleep apnea.

However, for severe symptoms, medical evaluation and treatment for snoring are essential. The options include-

• Breathing Devices - Several clinical devices are available to overcome the blockage of airways. One of the most common ones is the Continuous Positive Airflow Pressure (CPAP) device which is essentially a mask that covers the mouth and nose.  It provides a continuous supply of air to keep the air passages open while sleeping. A saline nasal spray may also be used if there is a nasal block that inhibits breathing. Other assistive breathing devices include Expiratory Positive Airway Pressure (EPAP), Bi-level Positive Airway Pressure (BPAP) and Adaptive Servo-Ventilation (ASV) devices.
• Oral Appliances - Customized oral appliances are available for treating sleep apnea. These are gaining popularity as they are highly portable, comfortable and quieter compared to breathing devices. Some examples of oral appliances include mandibular advancement device and tongue retaining device.
• Surgical Route - Surgery for snoring is aimed at increasing the airway size to reduce the number of sleep apnea episodes. For this, the ENT surgeon may remove tonsils, adenoids or excessive tissue in the throat, do a jaw reconstruction surgery or make a plastic rod implantation in the palates. Laser surgery for snoring is a safe intervention today which fosters quick recovery of the patients. The latest advancements include pacemaker implants for opening airways through muscular stimulation.

Sleep Apnea treatment India offers promising results to patients with innovative healthcare technologies and affordable rates. For more information please contact this ENT hospital in Coimbatore.

The Connection Between Nose, Throat and Ears - How Exactly It Works?

The interconnectedness of the ear, nose and throat is probably the 5th grade science and still knowing about the world of these three intricately connected organs will never fail to amuse us.

Even though our entire body obeys the butterfly effect in the theory of chaos, no other organs in our system can relate to each other as much as the nose, throat and ears do.

The love to share with each other -

Even though all organs in our body are directly or indirectly connected or interdependent, nose, throat and ears share a special bond that goes beyond just sharing and supporting. These organs almost work like one system and when there is a disturbance in one organ, the others will follow it.

This is the very reason why whenever there is an ailment such as congestion, infection, and swelling in any of the lot, the other organs reflect it without fail. For example, it is almost impossible for someone with a nose problem to dodge the illness in the throat or in the ear.

The connection between these three is so strong that even in the medical world, there are no separate specialists for nose, ear or throat and any issue related to any of these organs will be treated by the ENT specialists.

What drives the connection between nose, throat and ears to work the way it works?

The science behind the way this connection works is a simple math! The nose, ear and throat are connected with a tube-like structure, medically known as pharyngotympanic tube. This makes an easy passage for the bacteria and viruses to travel in between.

As the interconnectedness is all about the structure of these three organs, let’s have a look into the structural parts of each organ for a better understanding.

• Nose - Compared to the other three in the system, the nose takes a plethora of illnesses. Structurally, it is divided into 2 major parts known as anterior nose, also known as the visible part of the nose, and the posterior nose. The posterior nose directly connected to the throat by the pharyngotympanic tube.
• Throat - Throat could be divided into 3 parts. Nasopharynx which is located right behind the posterior part of the nose, the 2nd part known as oropharynx which is behind the mouth, and the 3rd part known as the laryngopharynx which hosts the voice box.
• Ears - Each ear is segregated into 3 parts. Outer, middle and inner ear. Middle ear and the throat are connected by the same tube that completes the cycle of interconnection.

This entire system is housed in the skull cavities called sinuses. This whole system determines our sensory capabilities such as smell and taste. Additionally, it plays a defining role in the way we breathe.

In fact, there is no denying that this whole system determines a person’s quality of living which makes it essential for us to take good care of it.

Treatment for various conditions of nose, throat and ears -

An infection in the ear could be passed onto the throat and a congestion in the nose could lead to ear ailments. As listing down all the infections is a mammoth task considering they are plentiful, here are a few ENT conditions that are common and you might want to look out for.

• Nose conditions - Nasal conditions affect the ability of smell, breathe and even sleep. The conditions include common cold, chronic sinusitis, sleep disorders, and deviated septum.
• Throat conditions - Common cold can lead to sore and strep throat. Other common throat conditions would be reflexes, strep throat, adenoids and tonsillitis can cause issues in the ears leading to reduced hearing and ear pain.
• Ear conditions - Ear infections can lead to pressure and balance related issues, dizziness, pain and allergies. If left untreated, these conditions may lead to hearing impairments.

If you are facing any of the above health conditions, consult your nearest ENT specialist for medical help.

Each ENT issue will have a significant impact on our day to day life. Considering this, it is imperative to seek medical help at the earliest.

Step by Step Instructions to Use Nasal Spray

Nasal sprays are common in any household as over the counter medicine. And, they are widely used for many reasons. Starting from the nasal congestion to clearing the sore throat, nasal sprays could treat issues associated with nose and sinuses.

In addition to that, various types of medications through the nose using them. Knowing how to use nasal sprays prior, helps people in maintaining the correct dosage, passage of medicine and also the absorption of it by the body. 

This blog helps you in understanding nasal sprays better, the types of them, how to prepare and step by step instructions on using nasal sprays.

Why do you need to use nasal sprays sensibly?

As nasal sprays, mostly, are over the counter medicines, it is important to know the general usage guidelines that are safe. Overusing these sprays can cause irritation or cause the nose to stop its reaction to the sprays.

There are other side effects such as rebound effect that may eventually lead to chronic sinus infections. Using any type of medicine sensibly as instructed by the doctor is important and nasal sprays are not an exemption.

What you need to know about nasal sprays?

Generally you will get 2 types of nasal sprays - regular spray and pump spray. Doctors prescribe the suitable type of spray based on the nose condition.

Once applied as directed, nasal sprays start working by shrinking the blood vessels that are swollen due to sinus issues, allergies and cold.

People may think using nasal spray is easy and this could lead to serious nasal issues. Here is a step-by-step guide for you to understand the nasal spray usage better and avoid the side effects.

How to use nasal spray?

If you are an adult, you could self-administer nasal sprays but if you are a child or an elderly person, you need a caregiver. Before administering the medicine, you need to wash your hands with a soap or hand sanitizer, keep the nasal spray and tissue ready.

Step by step guide to use nasal spray -

The preparation remains the same for both types of nasal sprays. If you have been prescribed the regular nasal spray, follow these steps to use it in a correct sense.

1. Using the regular nasal spray -

• Sit upright with your head in a straight and relaxed position. Use tissue to clear the nose and uncap the spray.
• Hold the container using your thumb and point finger and close the nostril that is not being sprayed with the other hand.
• Insert the tip of the nasal spray inside the nostril and gently press the container. Ensure the pressure is not releasing more than a single drop from the spray.
• Remove the spray from the nostril and gently sniff. Give it a 5-10 second gap before you spray the next drop. Remain in the position for at least 30 seconds before you relax.
• Follow the same steps for the other nostril if it’s been recommended. The frequency and dosage may vary based on the nasal issue.

2. Using the pump nasal spray -

• Wash your hands and sit in a relaxed position. Place the spray tip between the index and middle finger with your thumb finger supporting the base of the container.
• Spray once or twice in air so that you know how much pressure needs to be applied. Close the other nostril and insert the tip in another.
• Gently apply the pressure, spray once or twice as directed and remove. Sniff slowly once or twice. And use the same directions for the other nostril if that was the instruction. 

Wash your hands after using the spray. Clean the tip with clean tissue and tight cap it. Store the spray in a place as directed by the doctor or as per the instructions on the container.

Even though it is a common and widely used medicine, using other’s nasal spray is strictly prohibited. Also, ensure the tip of the spray is not touched anything apart from the inside parts of the nose.

Do not increase the dose or start using frequently for effectiveness. It may lead to inner nose damage or cause infections. Consult your nearest allergy specialist or any ENT hospital if you are not feeling any relief after using the nasal spray.