Nose conditions

The way your nose functions is very important for your overall health. It filters the air you breathe, removing germs, dust, and irritants. Your nose also warms and moistens the tubes and lungs and prevents them from drying out. When there is a problem with your nose, it can affect other parts of your body. For example, a stuffy nose from the common cold can make it difficult for you to sleep and breathe properly.

Common nose problems

• Nasal polyps - benign growths that develop on the lining of your nose or sinuses
• Nosebleeds
• Deviated septum - a shifting of the wall that divides the nasal cavity
• Rhinitis - inflammation of sinuses and nose
• Nasal fractures/a broken nose
• Sinusitis
• Snoring/sleep apnea

Diagnosing nose conditions

For growths like nasal polyps, A CT scan or MRI scan may be necessary to determine the exact size and location of the growth. Scans can also reveal whether the growth has deformed the bone in the surrounding area.

For inflammatory conditions, allergy tests can help Dr Setoaba determine the source of persistent nasal inflammation. These tests involve making tiny skin pricks into your skin and depositing the liquid form of a variety of allergens. Dr Setoaba will then see if your immune system reacts to any of the allergens.

Treatments for nose conditions

For minor issues, such as acute sinusitis, medication and antibiotics are used. If medications prove ineffective, then surgery is recommended. Dr Setoaba generally uses a nasal endoscopy to perform surgery. Nasal endoscopy involves placing a narrow tube with a tiny camera into your nose. This enables Dr Setoaba to perform a detailed examination inside your nose and sinuses. She then uses tiny instruments to remove polyps and other growths that block the flow of fluids from your sinuses.