Are allergies the same as nose disorders?

Brian J. Broker, MD

Ear, Nose & Throat (Otolaryngology)

The nose is just one of many parts of the body that can be affected by allergies. And nose disorders are often caused by several factors including swelling and thick mucus caused by allergies. Often, a narrow nose due to a deviated septum won't be too much of a problem until allergy swelling makes it worse. This can lead to congestion, headache, and sinus infection.

Honor Society of Nursing (STTI)

Allergies are often the cause of nose disorders like rhinitis and chronic sinusitis, but allergies are not nose disorders. Nose disorders include structural as well as inflammatory problems. Allergies may lead to inflammation in the lining of the nasal passages, which in turn create a runny or stuffy nose, headaches, and other symptoms of nose disorders. Allergy shots, or desensitization injections, may help to alleviate severe symptoms that do not respond to medication.

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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.

Nose Disorders

Your nose plays a very important part in maintaining your health. As you breathe it filters out the bad stuff in the air like dust and germs. It also moistens the air as you breathe so that your lungs stay hydrated and healthy. You can be miserable if your nose is injured or irritated, whatever the cause. Nose disorders can range from a simple nosebleed or a runny nose that can be treated at home to more serious disorders such as nasal polyps (growths) or a deviated septum (a twist in the wall that separates the two sides of your nose) that may require surgery. Whatever the cause of your nose problem, it's important to know that you can usually be helped by seeing an ear, nose and throat (ENT) doctor.

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