Nasal & sinus problems inc rhinitis & sinusitis

Definition:

The sinuses (paranasal sinuses) are air cavities within the facial bones, lined by mucous membranes similar to those in other parts of the airways. Problems concerning the sinuses can include rhinitis - an inflammation of the mucous membrane that lines the nose, often due to allergy to pollen, dust or other airborne substances, which causes sneezing, itching, a runny nose and nasal congestion and sinusitis - inflammation of the membranes lining the facial sinuses, often caused by bacterial or viral infection, or allergic reaction.

Mr Stefan Chmelik on Nasal/sinus problems, rhinitis, sinusitis

Nasal and sinus obstruction that is not directly due to an allergic cause is quite common. There may be a physical cause such as a deviated septum or previous nasal damage, or the cause may not be immediately obvious.

Body acupuncture and localised sinus massage are nearly always helpful. Diet modification can make a difference in certain people, but I always use differential diagnosis to establish who will benefit from diet changes before asking someone to change their diet unnecessarily. I also sometimes show people how to do special sinus cleansing detoxification exercises, which make all the difference for some people.

See also Hay fever, seasonal allergies, allergic rhinitis