help

Hello, I have been suffering from these symptoms for several years and would like to know a little more about whatever condition I have. My nose has been congested for years. It functions some, but only one nostril is ever clear enough to get a small amount of air through. My ears feel full and pressured, they make a crackling nose whenever I swallow. Mucus seems to always be leaking down into my throat also. I've been to the doctor once about this, he prescribed me some steroids and Clarinex which didn't do much and ended up costing alot. The Clarinex helped somewhat but didn't help much in alleviating the nasal congestion or ear issues. could someone please give me some advice?

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
The symptoms are suggestive of chronic sinusitis. The sinuses are air-filled spaces lined with mucous membranes surrounding the forehead, cheeks and eyes. Healthy sinuses allow mucus to drain and air to circulate throughout the nasal passages. When sinuses become inflamed, these areas get blocked and mucus cannot drain. This lack of proper sinus drainage can lead to infection,headache,dizziness etc. Worse pain in the morning because mucus has been collecting and draining all night.
Avoid indigestible, spicy, foods and meats. Eat simply of wholesome food. Obtain needed out-of-door exercise, sunbaths, and swimming. It can also be treated using an antihistamine nasal spray.Corticosteroid sprays are also helpful but their ling term use can cause  side effects.Better to use saline nasal sprays. The golden rule for chronic stuffy nose is steam inhalation. Inhaling steam from a bowl of hot (but not boiling water) may help to soften, and loosen, the build up of mucus in your nose. You may also find that adding some menthol crystals, or eucalyptus oil, to the water, helps to ease your symptoms of catarrh.
If the symptoms persist then sinus surgery is the last treatment.
Hope this information helps.Take care and pls do keep me posted on how you are doing or if you have any additional queries