Colds and rhinitis – nose problems!
News | autor:
PIP | 13.01.2016.
The nose is the starting point of the respiratory system and plays a very important role in breathing, one of the most vital functions of living organisms.
The nose acts as a mechanical air filter. Its inner walls are covered with mucous membranes with numerous hairs called cilia. These membranes secrete mucous that is moved about by the cilia, to constantly cover the inner lining of the nose, “catching” all the harmful particles inhaled, and removing them from the respiratory system. Mucous also contains immunoactive compounds that are capable of deactivating various harmful microorganisms that we inhale in the air. It is important to maintain the defensive abilities and the natural moisture of the nasal membranes, to protect the body’s overall immunity.
Colds and infective rhinitis are more common in autumn and winter!
Sneezing, sniffling, an itchy, clogged nose, hindered breathing, loss of smell, post-nasal drip – these are some of the unpleasant symptoms that come with colds and rhinitis.
The common cold is a mild infection of the nose and throat caused by a virus. This is the most common infectious disease in the world. The disease is transmitted via airborne droplets, and so colds are more frequent during winter, when we spend our time indoors in poorly ventilated spaces. Every year, up to 2.5 million Croatians are affected by the common cold. Adults can have a cold up to 4 times per year, while children under the age of 5 years can be affected up to 8 times. Since the cold is viral, symptomatic therapy is recommended and does not include the use of antibiotics.
Rhinitis or inflammation of the nasal membranes rarely appears as an isolated ailment. It is most commonly associated with infections of the throat (pharyngitis), tonsils (tonsillitis) and vocal cords (laryngitis).
This disease includes nasal congestion, as a blockage or obstruction of the nose, and the feeling of stuffiness. The nasal membranes become inflamed due to the inflammation of the blood vessels.
This condition may be further complicated with a spread of the virus to the sinuses or a subsequent bacterial infection. If an acute viral infection of the upper respiratory pathways lasts longer than 10 days, a bacterial superinfection – sinusitis – has likely occurred, and this requires more serious therapy, both symptomatic and antibiotic.
Therapy
There is no best way to effectively treat a cold, as a cold is a self-limiting disease, it “comes and goes”. Symptomatic treatment is best, aimed at easing and remedying the course of the disease. Antibiotics have no effect on viruses, and are not used for colds or rhinitis.
For rhinitis, therapy includes rinsing the nose, which reduces inflammation, making it easier to blow the nose, and accelerating the natural healing of the nasal membranes.
Drops and sprays that cleanse and moisten the nasal membranes in a natural way are recommended. They can be used for a longer period of time, unlike decongestive drops and sprays, which should not be used for longer than 7 days. With extended use, these products may damage the nasal membranes and nerves, and may cause addiction to the active chemical compounds included in the drops and/or sprays.
Clear your airways naturally with Nasopip, a nasal spray from the Farmakol line!
100% natural, free of preservatives, artificial fragrances and alcohol. For children from 1 year of age, and adults.
Nasopip spray is suitable for daily hygiene, moistening, care and protection of the nasal membranes. This therapy does not irritate, and is suitable for long-term care of damaged and dry nasal membranes. Thanks to the bioflavonoids from propolis, Nasopip spray has antiseptic, bacteriocidal and virucidal action, to increase the defensive capabilities of the nasal membranes, reduce inflammation, strengthen small blood vessels, and help to relieve stuffed nasal passages.
Additionally, marshmallow in synergy with sage and mint have a calming effect on the nasal membranes, for a pleasant feeling of freshness after use.
Nasopip helps to open the airways in the upper respiratory system in colds, rhinitis and allergic rhinitis. For those who spend much time in spaces with dry air (due to heating or cooling), it helps to retain the natural moisture of the nasal membranes, and improving the removal of impurities from the nasal cavity.
By: Petra Galović, BSc, PIP d.o.o.