Nasal inflammation is an inflammation or swelling of the tissue which lines the sinuses. Also known as sinusitis, this ailment blocks the air passageways, causing mucus to increase and potentially cause an infection. This type of ailment is rather common and can be caused by something as simple as the common cold. Allergic rhinitis or the swelling of the lining of the nose can also be a progenitor of nasal inflammation. A deviated septum or a shift in the nasal cavity is also one of the ways that this agitation can begin.

Types

There are four different types of nasal inflammation:

 
• Acute
 
• Sub-acute
 
• Chronic
 
• Recurrent

Acute nasal inflammation comes very suddenly and includes pain that does not go away after 10-14 days. The acute type typically lasts four weeks or less. Sub-acute lasts four to eight weeks. Chronic shares the same characteristics as the first two types and lasts eight weeks or longer. Recurrent inflammation consists of several repeated attacks, which happen within the time frame of one year.

Causes

Nearly 37 million Americans suffer from at least one episode of acute nasal inflammation each year. For those who suffer from conditions like the blockage of drainage ducts, nasal polyps, narrow drainage ducts, nasal mucous membrane swelling or those whose medications compromise the immune system could be at greater risk for this condition. Children who are subjected to second-hand smoke may also be more likely to have an attack.

Treatments

Because causes of nasal inflammation are so varied, the treatments are as well. Acute onset sinusitis comes on rapidly and healthcare professionals may diagnose it as such, simply prescribing a nasal decongestant. They may also give an over-the-counter type of nasal spray or nasal drops depending upon the severity of the condition.If the issues lean more towards the chronic side, a doctor may suggest a vaporizer or steam machine to help soothe the nose. Antibiotics or oral steroids may also be prescribed.For those with chronic and recurrent conditions, a more aggressive approach may be required. First, it is important to promptly identify and remove any triggers that may be setting off the attacks. For more severe cases a doctor may be able to prescribe some stronger antibiotics. It is even common to go after lifestyle changes, make definite changes to diet or environment. Some have even gone so far as to pick up and move to another locale, climate or elevation if that is something that may be setting off agitated sinuses.

Balloon Sinuplasty

Another treatment for nasal inflammation is Balloon Sinuplasty. This procedure does not cut any of the nasal bone or tissue, as is the case with traditional sinus surgeries.A tiny balloon catheter is placed into the blocked nasal passages. The balloon is then inflated, which opens up the restricted airways from blockages. Saline is then sprayed into the opened passage, which helps to remove the remaining mucus, pus and any other infected material.When a patient receives a Balloon Sinuplasty treatment, the integrity of the inner lining of the sinuses is maintained, therefore many people have little to no recovery time. So there is no extended hospital stay involved, or extended time off work required.At the end of the day nasal inflammation is a condition we would all like to avoid and get relief from when we do experience it. For more information on balloon sinuplasty, contact The American Sinus Institute for a consultative appointment with an industry-leading Otolaryngologist. This treatment is available at all three Texas locations in San Antonio, Houston and Edinburg.