| The
following conditions are often associated with increased nasal
drainage. Also, it would not be unusual to have more than
one factor involved in a particular individual.
The following may cause an increase in thin
secretions:
* viruses
* allergies
* cold temperatures
* certain foods or spices
* pregnancy or hormonal changes
* drug side-effects (particularly high blood pressure medications)
* structural problems (deviated septum, large turbinates)
* vasomotor rhinitis (an abnormal regulatory problem with
the nose)
Decreasing the fluid content of the mucus
usually thickens the secretions leading to the impression
of increased mucus. The following may cause thickened secretions:
* low humidity
* sinus or nasal infections
* foreign bodies: (especially if the drainage is from one
side)
* environmental irritants: (tobacco smoke, smog)
* structural problems: (deviated septum, enlarged turbinates,
enlarged adenoids)
* advanced age: mucus membrane lining the nose can shrink
with age leading to a reduced volume of secretions that are
thicker
* hormonal problems
* drug side-effects: (antihistamines)
What conditions cause an impaired clearance
of nasal secretions?
Swallowing problems can make it difficult
to clear normal secretions. This may result in the accumulation
of material in the throat which can spill into the voice box
causing hoarseness, throat clearing, or cough. The following
factors can contribute to swallowing problems:
* advancing age: This will lead to decreased
strength and coordination in swallowing.
* stress: Leads to muscle spasm or lump in throat. Also a
nervous habit of frequent throat clearing will make the situation
worse.
* narrowing of the throat or tumors: This will impair the
passage of food.
* gastroesophageal reflux
* nerve or muscle disorders: (stroke, and muscle diseases,
etc.)
Seriousness
of Allergy Rhinitis | Perennial
Allergic Rhinitis |
Relieving
Toddler Nasal Congestion |
Non-Allergic
Rhinitis| Causes
of Allergic rhinitis| Treatment
of Allergic rhinitis|
History
of Allergic rhinitis| Abnormal
production of nasal secretions|
Allergic
Rhinitis in Children|
How
can chronic rhinitis and post-nasal drip be treated?|
What
are rhinitis and post-nasal drip? |
