Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: TUESDAY, January 14, 1992 TAG: 9201140138
SECTION: EXTRA PAGE: 6 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE: HOSAKERE CHANDRA SEKHAR ASSOCIATED PRESS
DATELINE: NEW YORK LENGTH: Medium
A HEALTHY NOSE CAN LEAD TO FEWER ILLNESSES
In Act 1 of Cyrano de Bergerac, Edmond Rostand wrote that "a great nose indicates a great man - genial, courteous, intellectual, virile, courageous."When the nose is working properly, most of us don't give it a second thought.
But the discomfort of a dry, stuffy, or runny nose can make this often unappreciated organ the center of attention.
Many people are preoccupied with the cosmetic appearance of the nose, but it is what's inside that is more important.
Although the nose is responsible for the sense of smell, its main job is to properly control the quality of the air that flows into the lungs. With each inhalation, the nose filters out dust, then adjusts the temperature and humidity of the air so that the lungs can absorb it.
The filtration process begins in the front of the nose where small hairs help block the entry of particles such as dust.
Inhaled air is cleaned in the nasal mucous membrane that lines the inside of the nose. This membrane is blanketed with a layer of hairs called "cilia," jutting out of the constituent cells. A layer of mucous sits on the surface of the cilia.
Like constantly moving wheat in the wind, the cilia keep wafting what gets attached to them in a one-way direction toward the back of the throat (to be swallowed), away from the lungs.
When stray bacteria and viruses get past the defense mechanism inside the nose, the nasal mucous membrane releases enzymes in another attempt to destroy the invading organisms.
The nasal mucous membrane doesn't work well or feel comfortable when it's dry. The arid air in overheated homes and offices draws much-needed moisture from the membrane and slows down the movement of the cilia.
These conditions work to lower the nose's resistance to infection and help set the stage for easy access by cold and flu viruses.
Smoking also irritates the membrane, and other abuses, such as sniffing cocaine or reliance on nasal sprays, can actually cause damage.
Any number of airborne substances also can irritate the nose, or trigger an allergy - a condition in which the immune system overreacts to something in the environment. Pollen, mold spores and even ingredients in perfumes are common irritants.
A runny nose is a common complaint and a classic symptom of an allergy. When an allergen is encountered, the body releases a chemical called "histamine" that brings about an inflammation of the nasal lining and the production of a large amount of fluid.
The sinuses, which are air-filled cavities in the skull that open into the nose, play no part in breathing. But as an extension of the nasal mucous membrane, they can become inflamed, a condition called "sinusitis."
If used for a short time - no more than three to five days - a nasal decongestant can be effective in shrinking the mucous membranes and help reduce swollen blood vessels. But when such sprays are used regularly to keep the nose clear, they can permanently thicken and scar the nasal lining.
The nose, with its delicate interior, needs to be protected. With the right kind of care, it may even work better.
A few other ways to protect it:
Don't blow the nose violently because such force can damage the mucous membrane.
Avoid nose picking because it also can damage the lining and lead to nosebleeds.
To help counter indoor dryness in the winter, use a vaporizer to add some moisture to the air. Keep the thermostat at a moderate setting. And be sure to drink plenty of fluids daily.
People who develop sinusitis may find some relief by using a vaporizer. Those with allergies should try to avoid the substance to which they are allergic. If either of these conditions persist after self-treatment, a physician should be consulted.