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Allergy Department
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| Mary E. Preston, LPN |
The Nose
The nasal cavity is surrounded by air spaces (sinuses) which, in many people, are subject to inflammation. Sinusitis is usually treated effectively by medication. However, in persistent cases, endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) is dramatically changing the treatment. Using a special fiber-optic telescope, infected or obstructing tissue can be removed with rapid healing and a minimum of swelling and scarring.
Other disorders of the nose and nasal cavity include polyps, deviated nasal septum or tumors which obstruct and make breathing difficult. Rhinoplasty is plastic surgery of the nose. We can perform this for purely cosmetic reasons to get rid of a hump or drooping large nose or to correct a nose deformity which may be obstructing normal breathing.
Allergies can not only affect the nose, but the eyes and throat as well. Other causes of nasal obstruction can be present in addition to allergies. Our doctors again offer a comprehensive management of nasal problems which may include any combination of medical treatment, surgery, and allergy testing, all of which are included in our practice.
- Control Moisture in the home. Reduce indoor air humidity to less than 50%. This will help control molds and dustmites.
- Check flues and chimneys for blockage and cracks that allow fumes to enter the home. Make sure chimneys have good draft up the flue and are clear of debris.
- Clean or replace filters in your furnace. Clean the heating vents. You can use cheesecloth to cover heating vents to help catch dust particles.
- Fireplace or wood stoves can cause problems for allergy patients. Wood stacked up inside the house is a good place for mold to grow. Fireplaces or wood stoves should be used for short periods of time only. Keep fireplace doors closed. Bring wood in a few pieces at a times.
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