Rhinosinusitis is an inflammation of the nasal lining and the lining of the paranasal sinuses, often triggered by factors such as upper respiratory infections, allergies, or sinus drainage disorders.

Dr. Tran Khanh Duy, a Specialist Level I in Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) at Tam Anh General Clinic, District 7, explains that dry weather reduces the nose's natural ability to retain moisture and cleanse itself. Exposure to dust, incense smoke, cigarette smoke, an irregular lifestyle, or alcohol consumption can lead to nasal lining swelling and congestion. Severe cases may result in nosebleeds and increased secretions, facilitating sinusitis recurrence and progression.

Dr. Duy offers several methods to help patients prevent and control symptoms, thereby limiting disease progression.

Keep the nose and sinuses warm and protected

Keep the nose and sinus area warm, especially in the early morning or at night. Rinse the nose daily with physiological saline solution to cleanse secretions, allergens, and dirt. Wear a mask outdoors in cold air, avoiding direct airflow to the face and throat.

Avoid irritants

Incense smoke, cigarette smoke, pollen, and strong fragrances can irritate mucous membranes, causing severe nasal congestion and runny nose. Therefore, patients should limit exposure to irritants, ensure good ventilation, and control mold.

Limit alcohol consumption

Avoid excessive alcohol consumption, as it can cause vasodilation, leading to nasal and sinus lining congestion and increased stuffiness. Alcohol also dehydrates the body, making nasal secretions thicker and more difficult to drain.

Dr. Duy consulting a patient. Photo: Tam Anh General Clinic, District 7.

Eat moderately, avoid overeating

Fatty, spicy foods and late-night eating habits can cause gastroesophageal reflux, a factor contributing to chronic sinusitis. Therefore, patients should eat moderately, avoid overeating before sleep, drink enough water, and use a humidifier or gel-based saline spray solution to keep airways moist.

Ensure adequate rest

Staying up late and insufficient sleep reduce immunity and prolong inflammation. Patients should maintain regular, sufficient sleep and slightly elevate their head to support better sinus drainage.

Dr. Duy warns that using topical vasoconstrictor medication for more than 5 days can cause medication-induced rhinitis and drug dependence, worsening symptoms. Patients should adhere to their doctor's treatment plan and avoid self-medicating with antibiotics or overusing vasoconstrictors. If symptoms such as nasal congestion, headache, or runny nose persist for more than 7-10 days without improvement, or if there is thick, foul-smelling nasal discharge accompanied by fever and facial pain, particularly around the eye sockets, patients should consult an ENT specialist for timely treatment to prevent dangerous complications.

Uyen Trinh