“Nasal” refers to anything related to the nose. The nasal passages are the two channels that run from the nostrils to the back of the throat and are lined with mucous membranes. They play a crucial role in breathing, filtering, and warming inhaled air, and producing mucus to moisturize and clean the inside of the nose.
A number of conditions can affect the nasal passages, including:
- Nasal congestion: swelling of the nasal tissues, leading to difficulty breathing through the nose.
- Rhinitis: inflammation of the nasal lining, which can cause symptoms such as sneezing, itching, and runny nose.
- Sinusitis: inflammation of the sinuses, which can cause pain and pressure in the face, as well as nasal congestion and discharge.
- Nasal polyps: small growths in the nasal passages that can cause blockages and affect breathing.
- Deviated septum: a condition in which the nasal septum is shifted to one side, leading to breathing difficulties.
Treatment for nasal conditions depends on the underlying cause and may include medications, lifestyle changes, or surgery.
