There are several different types of nose diseases. These include viral, fungal, and inflammatory polyps. You can learn more about them in this article. There is also a link to a complete glossary and treatments of nose diseases. Inflammatory polyps, fungal infections, and viruses are discussed in detail. Inflammatory polyps are the most common type of nose disease. Allergic rhinitis is another common type.

Allergic rhinitis

One of the most common diseases of the nose is allergic rhinitis, a type of chronic inflammation of the nasal mucosa. Inflammation in the nose can be severe, impacting sleep and work performance. While most people are symptomless, severe allergic rhinitis can have serious consequences. This article will discuss what to look for in a person with allergic rhinitis.

Although there is no known cure for allergic rhinitis, there are some effective treatments. Avoidance of specific allergens can reduce symptoms of the disease. Avoidance of pollen, dust mites, and dust mites are effective strategies, but there are still certain circumstances that prevent the avoidance of these substances. Some allergens can’t be avoided, but reducing exposure to them can significantly improve symptoms and reduce the need for pharmacological treatment.

Viruses

The human nose has a vast array of functions, beyond air going in and out. It is also a point of origin for many respiratory infections, involving both innate and adaptive immune systems. Viruses affect these immune systems in several ways, causing them to decrease the number of protective cytotoxic lymphocytes, or T cells, that normally kill pathogens in the nasal cavity. The result is an increase in bacterial count and a reduced function of the cilia.

Symptoms of viral nasopharyngitis include a runny nose and nasal discharge that can vary in color from white to yellow to green. Often, the discharge is related to mucous secretions, dryness, blood, or a leukocytotic inflammatory response. The severity and duration of symptoms depend on the virus type. However, it’s worth noting that a high fever is often associated with a rhinovirus infection, and that persistent discharge is more common than you’d think.

Fungal infections

Nasal fungus has the capacity to infect the nasal lining and lead to various nose diseases. There are different types of fungal infections and each has different treatments. Some treatments include taking a corticosteroid to reduce inflammation in the nose. However, the use of corticosteroids for fungal infections is not recommended, as they can increase the risk of fungal infection. Noninvasive treatments such as sterile saline solution and nasal wash can help in treating fungal infections.

There are several diagnostic criteria for fungal sinusitis. The major and minor criteria include the presence of a dark rubbery nasal cast. The most common sinus involved is the ethmoids. The CT findings of the nose may also reveal double-density sign. Fungal sinusitis can be a symptom of an underlying inflammatory condition such as diabetes. Patients with immune-suppression may also suffer from fungal sinusitis.

Tumors

Tumors of the nose and sinuses can cause pain, irritation, and infection, but they are also rare. Inflammation in the sinuses and nasal cavity can cause wartlike growths known as papillomas. Only 10 percent of papillomas are cancerous, but most are benign. Sinus cancer usually develops in older people, and most cases are diagnosed during the course of a sinus infection.

Malignant melanomas of the nasal cavity are similar to those that occur on the skin and can be aggressive, even after treatment. Other types of cancers of the nose include basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, cutaneous melanoma, and lymphomas. While most cancers of the nose are localized, some tumors can spread to the mouth or orbit. If this happens, a patient may experience pain, double vision, and dizziness.