Rhinitis and sinusitis: what is the difference
A runny nose can have many causes, from allergies to hypothermia or pathogenic bacteria. In science and medicine, a runny nose is usually called the term “Rhinitis”, from the Greek (“Rhinos” - “Nose.”)
Rhinitis is inflammation of the nasal mucosa. The nature of this inflammation can vary, and it is best to have it determined by a specialist. Inflammation is characterized by swelling of the mucous membrane, discharge and general malaise.
A common runny nose should not be confused with sinusitis. Here, the disease affects not only the mucous membranes, but also the sinuses.
The paranasal sinus is a cavity in the bones of the skull filled with air. There are four types:
- Frontal (located in the frontal bone). Refers to paired ones, that is, there are two of them, located symmetrically.
- Ethmoidal labyrinth (paired sinus formed by cells of the ethmoid bone)
- Sphenoid sinus (Unpaired, located in the area around the auricles)
- Maxillary or maxillary (Steam room, located in the upper jaw, on the sides of the nose).
The sinuses are also called sinuses, from the Latin sinus paranasales.
Their purpose is multifaceted, including protection from hypothermia of the eyeballs and roots of teeth, protection from traumatic influences, and partial participation in the formation of the timbre of the voice.
The inside of the paranasal sinuses is lined with epithelial cells and filled with air. The epithelium secretes mucus to protect against drying out, which is removed from the sinuses. In case of inflammation, swelling of the mucous membrane occurs, and the amount of mucus and fluid released increases.
If the nasal sinuses are involved in the process of inflammation of the nasal mucosa, the disease is called sinusitis.
Warming procedures with eggs
It is allowed to warm your nose with an egg for sinusitis in the early stages of the disease and at the stage preceding full recovery. Before using such procedures, you must consult with an ENT doctor.
This applies to both adults and young patients (starting from four years old, since children under this age, including infants, do not have sinusitis).
Warming procedures with boiled eggs are very convenient to carry out at home. The egg should be boiled in the usual way, then wrapped in a towel or linen napkin and applied to the nose (the area of the maxillary sinuses and bridge of the nose). You should not warm your forehead with a hot egg if you have sinusitis!
There is no need to peel the egg. It should be rolled gently, avoiding strong pressing movements. The temperature of the egg used for the procedure should not exceed 42 degrees above zero Celsius. Roll out within ten to fifteen minutes. It is permissible to replace the egg with potatoes, which should be boiled “in their uniforms”.
In addition to dry heat, such manipulation provides a massage effect that improves blood and lymph flow. The procedure of rolling eggs (potatoes) relieves unpleasant symptoms, reduces inflammation of the mucous membrane of the nasal cavity, and gradually relieves a runny nose. The duration of the course is prescribed by the attending physician. As a rule, it is no more than ten days.
After completing the warming procedure using a hard-boiled egg, the patient should take care of hypothermia, which increases the risk of getting sick again. The procedure is best performed in the evening hours. It will not only eliminate pain and reduce congestion, but also calm the nerves and ensure better sleep.
What is sinusitis
Sinusitis is a type of sinusitis in which inflammation of the maxillary or maxillary sinuses occurs. The infection usually enters from the nasal mucosa and develops in the sinus. The internal cavity is filled with liquid, mucus or pus, the outflow of which is difficult due to swelling of the mucous membrane. The result of such processes is a deterioration in well-being, pain in the forehead and eyebrow when the position of the head changes.
The main causes of the disease:
- Viruses;
- Bacteria;
- Allergic reaction;
- Injuries.
Often a person is not able to distinguish ordinary rhinitis from sinusitis, yet there are differences, and they are significant. As well as the consequences of an advanced disease.
Is it possible to warm the nose with sinusitis with a blue lamp?
The maxillary sinuses are heated in a clinic through inhalation, ultra-high-frequency heat induction and a red lamp.
At home, a blue lamp can be used to apply heat to the maxillary sinuses. It emits infrared rays that help warm up soft tissues, penetrating to a depth of 4 cm. The device provides dry heat, but does not provide a bactericidal effect, so there is no benefit from its use as monotherapy.
While warming up, the lamp should be kept at a distance of 15 cm from the face, since placing it closer can damage the skin. The duration of the procedure and the frequency of its implementation are determined by the doctor. On average, warming is carried out 3 times a day for 10 minutes for 5–7 days.
It is important to consider that you cannot use a blue lamp if pus forms in the sinuses.
How is a runny nose different from sinusitis?
The course of the disease may be similar at first. The main symptoms are nasal congestion and discharge, fatigue, redness of the nose or bridge of the nose.
Due to the fact that there are few nerve endings in the cells lining the sinuses, a person may not immediately suspect sinusitis.
Symptoms of sinusitis
- Severe runny nose. Does not stop or decreases slightly when taking medications.
- Weakness, fatigue. These symptoms are generally characteristic of any inflammation; they are also relevant for sinusitis.
- Increased body temperature. It is also a sign of inflammation.
- Headache, discomfort in the nose or forehead. Painful sensations when pressing or tapping in the area of the wings of the nose.
If you have similar symptoms, this is a good reason to visit a doctor who will accurately determine the disease. Remember that complications from sinusitis can be serious and pose a health hazard.
What medications are there for sinusitis?
By release form
- Tablets, capsules;
- Sprays, drops, ointments, solutions for inhalation
Intranasal agents also have a common name, i.e. inserted into the nasal cavity. It is generally accepted that sprays atomize the drug more effectively due to pressure and small particle size.
- Solutions for injections
By action
Anticongestants and adrenergic agonists
They have a vasoconstrictor effect, relieve swelling, and reduce discomfort in the nasopharynx. In addition, they help reduce mucus secretion.
Antibacterial agents
If the doctor determines that the cause of sinusitis is a bacterial infection, antibiotics are prescribed. Antimicrobial drugs stop the growth of microorganisms and suppress their vital functions. Next, the natural forces of the body come into force, removing dead bacteria and suppressing the growth of new ones on their own.
Based on this ability, all antibacterial agents are divided into two groups:
- Bactericidal (killing bacteria);
- Bacteriostatic (suppresses the ability of bacteria to reproduce).
It should be remembered that the use of antibiotics can also suppress beneficial microflora. Doctors are well aware of this, so during treatment you will also be prescribed medications with ready-made microflora cultures. After stopping the course, the beneficial microflora is restored on its own after a certain time. Antimicrobials most often do not work against viruses.
Mucolytics
Medicines that thin mucus and make it easier to remove. When inflamed, the mucus in the sinuses becomes thick and cannot come out on its own. As a result, bacterial contamination intensifies. When using mucolytic agents, the consistency of the secretions becomes liquid, and they are naturally removed from the nasal passages or maxillary sinuses. Such drugs are produced in the form of tablets or syrups, as well as sprays for topical use.
Anti-inflammatory
Any inflammation is accompanied by swelling and fever, local or at the site of the inflammatory process. This is how the body gets confused to fight the infection, while simultaneously protecting the affected organ, and signaling this to its owner. Anti-inflammatory drugs are aimed at relieving the symptoms of inflammation, primarily by lowering the temperature and reducing swelling. Also, these drugs have an analgesic effect, that is, they reduce pain at the site of inflammation. Anti-inflammatory drugs are often prescribed in combination with others, such as vasoconstrictors.
Is it possible to warm the nose with sinusitis: methods of warming up at home
Sinusitis is inflammation of the mucous membrane of the maxillary (maxillary) sinus. The pathology most often develops against a background of weakened immunity, hypothermia, infectious lesions of the nasopharynx or teeth.
Acute sinusitis is characterized by nasal congestion, copious mucus discharge from the nasal passages, discomfort in the affected sinus area, toothache and headache. The chronic form of inflammation is accompanied by similar symptoms, but they are less pronounced; against its background, exacerbations and subsidence of the clinical manifestations of the disease are observed.
To treat sinusitis, broad-spectrum antibacterial agents, vasoconstrictors or antihistamines, and nasal rinsing with antiseptics are prescribed. It is important to carry out therapy in accordance with the instructions of an otolaryngologist (ENT), since self-medication can lead to a worsening of the condition.
If maxillary sinusitis develops against the background of acute respiratory viral infections or influenza, mustard plasters, a warm heating pad, hot foot baths with mustard, and rinsing the mouth with antiseptic solutions can be used.
Most often, warming preparations (asterisk), a dry heating pad, table or sea salt are used to warm the maxillary sinuses at home.
Along with the methods of traditional medicine, the use of traditional medicine is widespread. These include herbal medicine, using eggs or salt to warm the nose for sinusitis. Before using any alternative treatment methods, it is recommended to consult a doctor to avoid negative consequences. For example, heating the irritated mucous membrane of the maxillary sinuses in some cases can aggravate the course of inflammation, contribute to the rapid progression of pathology and the development of severe complications.
The best remedies for the treatment of sinusitis
Intranasal
Naphthyzin
A popular brand used in the complex treatment of sinusitis and rhinitis. Available in the form of drops and spray. It is in high demand among buyers due to its low price and large selection of companies producing this medicine.
Active ingredient: Naphazoline. It belongs to alpha2-adrenergic agonists. When used, it constricts the vessels of the nasal mucosa, thereby removing swelling and reducing hyperemia. As a result, it facilitates nasal breathing and improves the patency of the nasal passages.
Directions for use: Intranasally, adults and children over 15 years old, 1-3 drops of 0.05% - 0.1% product, 3-4 times a day
Restrictions: Contraindicated for children under 15 years of age.
Naphthyzin
Advantages:
- Fast action;
- Low price.
Flaws:
- May cause dry mucous membranes;
- With long-term use, the effectiveness of the action decreases.
Sanorin
Another drug that uses Naphazoline as an active ingredient. Available in the form of an emulsion. Additionally, it contains eucalyptus oil, which has an antiseptic effect and improves blood circulation. However, in this case, the amount of oil in the composition is insignificant to have a therapeutic effect, and it is used more to improve the organoleptic properties of the drops.
Sanorin should be used intranasally, 2-3 drops in each nostril, 2-3 times a day.
The product is contraindicated for children under 15 years of age.
Sanorin
Advantages:
- Fast therapeutic effect;
- Low price;
- Eucalyptus oil in the composition;
- Longer action compared to Naphthyzin.
Flaws:
- Long-term use reduces effectiveness;
- May cause dryness and burning of the nasal mucosa.
Xymelin
Nasal spray. Contains xylometazoline.
Xylometazoline was proposed as a replacement for Naphazoline. The structure of its molecule is similar to the above-mentioned drug. The key difference is that the drug is absorbed faster in the body and is practically not absorbed into the blood. Belongs to the class of alpha2-adrenergic agonists. When used, it narrows the capillaries in the nasal cavity, reduces swelling, and facilitates nasal breathing. The effect occurs 2-3 minutes after spraying and lasts for several hours.
It is used in the treatment of rhinitis, sinusitis, including sinusitis. Does not accumulate in blood plasma.
Directions for use: Intranasal, 2 times a day. No more than 7 days in a row.
For children it is produced separately, with a reduced concentration.
Contraindicated for pregnant women.
Xymelin
Advantages:
- Available everywhere;
- The effect of use occurs after a short time.
Flaws:
- Possible unpleasant side effects such as dry nasopharynx;
- Poorly compatible with a large number of drugs, carefully read the contraindications.
Nazivin
Prescribed for vasomotor and allergic rhinitis, as well as complex treatment of acute respiratory viral infections, sinusitis, including sinusitis.
Active ingredient: Oxymetazoline
It is an alpha adrenergic agonist. When applied topically, it narrows the capillaries in the nasal cavity, reduces swelling of the mucous membrane and facilitates nasal breathing. Does not have a systemic effect on the body.
Available in the form of drops, taken intranasally, 2-3 times a day, 1-2 drops in each nasal passage.
Approved for use during pregnancy. Allowed for children in a reduced dosage (available separately, indicating age).
Nazivin
Advantages:
- Has a long-lasting effect;
- Does not irritate mucous membranes;
Flaws:
- There may be a temporary decrease in the ability to perform operations that require increased concentration.
Vibrocil
Nasal spray.
Active ingredients: Phenylephrine and Dimetindene
Phenylephrine belongs to the group of alpha1-adrenergic stimulants. When applied topically, it has an anticongestive effect, facilitates nasal breathing, and reduces swelling of the nasal mucosa. Does not have a systemic effect on the body.
Dimetindene belongs to the group of antihistamines and, together with Phenylephrine, reduces discomfort in the nasal cavity, facilitates the release of mucus from the sinuses and makes breathing easier.
Indications for the use of Vibrocil are quite broad, primarily allergic and vasomotor rhinitis. In the treatment of sinusitis, it is used in combination with other medications.
Available in the form of drops, spray and gel.
Contraindicated for children under one year of age, not recommended for pregnant and lactating women.
It is used intranasally. Children from 1 year to 6 years: 1-2 drops 3-4 times a day.
Children over 6 years old and adults: 3-4 drops 3-4 times a day.
The duration of treatment should not exceed 7 days. If there is no improvement, a repeat visit to the doctor is necessary.
Vibrocil
Advantages:
- Complex long-lasting action due to two active ingredients.
Flaws:
- High price;
- Systemic vasoconstrictor effect.
Local anti-inflammatory therapy (intranasal corticosteroids)
GCS is an abbreviation for “synthetic glucocorticosteroids.” These are steroid hormones that have anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, anti-shock and immunosuppressive effects on the body.
Prescribed for the treatment of the acute stage of sinusitis, characterized by a violent inflammatory process, a large amount of secretion in the maxillary sinuses, significant swelling of the epithelium of the sinuses and nasopharyngeal mucosa.
Nasobek
The active substance is the corticosteroid beclomethasone. It is considered potent and is prescribed by doctor's prescription. The drug has an anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic effect, reduces the formation of secretions in the sinuses, reduces swelling, and facilitates the removal of toxins from the source of infection.
The drug is produced in the form of a nasal spray. Used intranasally, 3 to 4 times a day, in doses of 50 mcg. One vial contains 200 doses of 50 mcg. The effect of the product does not appear immediately. From the moment of administration to the onset of action, it takes from 16 hours to a day. Beclomethasone has a cumulative effect; after taking the medication, its effect lasts several days until it is eliminated from the body.
Nasobek
Advantages:
- Effective anti-inflammatory effect;
- Low price.
Flaws:
- The effect appears after some time.
Flixonase
Used in complex therapy of sinusitis. Before use, be sure to consult a specialist.
The active ingredient is fluticasone.
Has immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory effects. Reduces mucus secretion in the sinuses, reduces swelling of the mucous membrane of the upper respiratory tract.
Recommended for children from 4 years old.
Available in the form of a nasal spray. The dose is 50 mcg, 2 times a day in each nasal passage. If the effect occurs, the dosage should be reduced.
One bottle of the product contains 60 doses.
Flixonase
Advantages:
- Fast and gentle action, the effect is felt 60-90 minutes after the first use;
- No significant side effects were noted.
Flaws:
- High price;
- A large number of contraindications.
Avamis
The next brand in the review also contains fluticasone. Produced in spray form by a British pharmaceutical concern.
Often prescribed by doctors for the complex treatment of sinusitis. The effect of the drug is standard for glucosteroid hormones. Avamis has a pronounced anti-inflammatory effect. Can be prescribed to young patients from two years of age.
Available in dosages of 30, 60 and 120 doses. One dose contains 27.5 mgm of substance.
The course of treatment is 7 days. The effect of administration occurs 7-9 hours after the first use and lasts for one and a half to two days after the end of administration.
Avamis
Advantages:
- Pronounced anti-inflammatory effect;
Flaws:
- High price.
Antibacterial
Polydexa
A complex antibacterial drug containing two antibiotics - neomycin and polymyxin B. In addition to antibiotics, the adrenergic stimulant phenylephrine is added to the spray, which helps relieve swelling. Produced in French.
The indication for use is the detected presence of pathogenic microorganisms.
Polydex should be taken strictly in accordance with the instructions for use. The course of treatment lasts 7-10 days, but no more than 10.
Polydexa
Advantages:
- High antimicrobial efficiency;
Flaws:
- Not identified.
- Side effects of taking antibiotics.
Miramistin
Antibacterial drug with a wide spectrum of action. Used for flushing sinuses and nasal passages. Has excellent anti-inflammatory effect. Designed and produced in Russia. A distinctive feature of Miramistin is that it affects all types of pathogenic organisms without causing resistance in them after the first use, in other words, they do not develop resistance to it, and with repeated use the product works just as effectively.
Available in the form of a solution. It is used intranasally.
Miramistin
Advantages:
- Extremely small number of contraindications;
- High antimicrobial efficiency;
- Low price.
Flaws:
- Not identified.
Mucolytics
Medicines designed to reduce the viscosity of mucus and phlegm in the sinuses. When mucus becomes thick, it cannot be cleared from the sinuses on its own, which aggravates inflammation and causes pain. Mucolytic drugs break down mucus molecules, making it less viscous. Then the body, naturally, or under the influence of other drugs prescribed for treatment, is able to remove it from the body.
Ambrobene
Mucolytic agent with a wide range of applications. Widely used for diseases of the respiratory system, bronchitis. For sinusitis, it is also used to facilitate the removal of mucus from the maxillary sinuses.
Available in the form of tablets, syrups, and solutions for inhalation.
For the best effect, it is recommended to drink plenty of fluids when taking the medicine, so the mucolytic effect manifests itself faster and stronger.
Approved for use by children from one year of age.
Ambrobene
Advantages:
- Wide range of dosage forms;
- Sustained mucolytic effect.
Flaws:
- Not detected.
Sinuforte
Solution for intranasal use.
The peculiarity of Sinuforte is that for its production plant raw materials are used - extract of tubers of the cyclamen plant.
Under the influence of its enzymes, after administration, the secretion of secretions from all sinuses increases. The epithelium lining the walls of the sinuses increases the secretion of mucus. At the same time, the product has an anti-edematous effect, which makes it possible for the natural release of secretions from the sinuses.
One of the effects of taking it is a slight burning sensation in the nasal passages and reflex sneezing, possibly lacrimation.
It is recommended to use Sinuforte once a day.
Sinuforte
Advantages:
- Natural composition;
- Quick effect after taking.
Flaws:
- High price.
Bromhexine
It is used in combination in the treatment of sinusitis, in the form of a solution for inhalation or in the form of tablets.
When taken, it reduces the viscosity of bronchial secretions and also affects the secretions that accumulate in the sinuses. The effect of the drug does not occur immediately. Depending on the characteristics of the body, the effect may appear 2-4 days after the start of administration.
When taking, you should strictly follow the dosage indicated in the instructions.
Bromhexine
Advantages:
- Does not cause irritation;
- Effectively affects the sinuses and bronchi;
- Low price.
Flaws:
- Not detected.
Methods for heating sinusitis with an egg
To carry out a warming procedure approved by the attending physician using a boiled egg, it is recommended to use two methods. These include:
- It is recommended to drop two eggs into boiling water using a tablespoon. After seven minutes of cooking, they are taken out, wrapped in a towel and applied to both sides of the nose in the areas of the maxillary sinuses. The eggs must be kept in this position until they cool completely. You can also roll them in this area clockwise from side to side. The warming procedure should be performed at night before bed for several days. Hypothermia or going outside after it is unacceptable.
- In the second case, you can warm your nose when diagnosing the initial stage of development of sinusitis and after permission from the otolaryngologist with halves of a hard-boiled and shelled egg. When applied to both sides of the nose with the yolk side, they will cause a pulling sensation. It is recommended to keep the peeled halves until they cool completely.
Patients should always remember that sinusitis is a serious disease of the maxillary sinuses and cannot be treated negligently. Successful treatment of pathology is determined by strict adherence to the recommendations and prescriptions of the attending physician. And making an independent decision to eliminate the disease based on warming procedures is unacceptable.
