What is the nose, and what are its essential functions?
The nose is the entry point to the upper respiratory tract—it filters, humidifies, and warms the inhaled air before it reaches the bronchi and lungs. Its nasal mucosa provides mucociliary clearance (removal of pathogens and particles), the sense of smell, and the production of secretory IgA (local immunity). Nasal care products and ENT products are available in the ENT section of the store.
- Functional anatomy: two nasal cavities separated by the septum—three turbinates on each side (superior, middle, inferior) that increase the air-mucosa contact surface—paranasal sinuses (frontal, maxillary, ethmoid, sphenoid) that drain into the nasal cavities
- Signs of impaired nasal function: nasal congestion — runny nose — dry and irritated nose — loss of smell (hyposmia) — repeated sneezing
What are the most common causes of nasal problems?
- Infectious rhinitis: common cold (rhinovirus), flu—congestion, clear discharge turning yellowish—spontaneous resolution within 7 to 10 days—see care for nasal secretions
- Allergic rhinitis: IgE-mediated reaction to pollen, dust mites, animal dander — sneezing fits, nasal and eye itching, clear discharge — seasonal or perennial — see care guidelines forallergies
- Sinusitis: inflammation of the paranasal sinuses — congestion, frontal and maxillary pressure pain, fever — acute (viral or bacterial) or chronic
- Deviated nasal septum: anatomical asymmetry obstructing one nasal passage — chronic unilateral congestion — surgical treatment (septoplasty) if causing functional impairment
- Aggravating factors: excessively dry air (humidity < 40%) — air pollutants and tobacco smoke — chronic stress (reduced mucosal immunity) — prolonged use of vasoconstrictive decongestants (medication-induced rhinitis)
How can you relieve and prevent nasal problems naturally?
- Salinenasal irrigation: a fundamental practice — normal saline or isotonic seawater — removes allergens, viruses, and mucus — 2 to 4 times daily during the acute phase — daily nasal hygiene for prevention
- Eucalyptus steam inhalation: hot water at 42–45 °C with a few drops of diluted Eucalyptus globulus essential oil — cineole has mucolytic and decongestant properties — 10 minutes, 2 to 3 times a day — contraindicated for children under 7 years of age
- Honey and ginger in hot herbal tea: soothing, mildly antibacterial — relieves throat irritation associated with postnasal drip — contraindicated in infants under 1 year of age
- Protective nutrition: vitamin C (mucosal immunity, citrus fruits, bell peppers) — omega-3 EPA-DHA (anti-inflammatory for mucous membranes, fatty fish, 2 to 3 g/day) — vitamin A (epithelial renewal, liver, orange-colored vegetables)
- Environmental prevention: humidifier if the air is dry — HEPA air purifiers — keep windows closed during peak pollen hours (RNSA) — quit smoking (Tabac Info Service: 3989)
