Baltimore City Wire

• Nasal inflammation, also referred to as sinusitis, involves inflammation or swelling of the sinus lining.
• When the sinuses become inflamed, the build-up of pressure in your sinuses causes pain that feels like a headache.
• Sinus inflammation affects 16% of women and 10% of men each year.

Inflammation is the natural response of the body to an infection and will happen invariably when someone is dealing with sinusitis. According to Dr. Jamie Oberman of Frederick Breathe Free, sinus inflammation can occur from allergies and should be tested.

“The sinus lining can be inflamed for a significant amount of time from allergens,” Dr. Oberman told the Baltimore City Wire. “We always test. Not everybody who has inflammation has allergies, but you should always exclude that because if you do, it's easy to treat.”

According to Pulchra, Sinuses refer to the hollow spaces found between the eyes, behind the cheekbones, and the forehead. They are responsible for making mucus that keeps the insides of the nose moist protecting you from pollutants, dust, and allergens. When filled with fluid and blocked, an infection caused by germs occurs. If you have an inflamed sinus, it’s sinusitis. It includes symptoms like pain, tenderness, or swelling around the sinuses.

Nasal inflammation can obstruct air passages, leading to increased mucus production and the potential for infection, according to the American Sinus Institute. The issue is relatively common and is often triggered by something as common as the common cold. Additionally, allergic rhinitis, which involves swelling of the nasal lining, can contribute to nasal inflammation. The Institute mentions that another possible cause is a deviated septum or a structural shift within the nasal cavity, which can also initiate this condition.

Nearly 37 million Americans suffer from at least one episode of acute nasal inflammation each year, according to the Institute. For those who suffer from conditions like the blockage of drainage ducts, nasal polyps, narrow drainage ducts, nasal mucous membrane swelling or those whose medications compromise the immune system could be at greater risk for this condition. Children who are exposed to second-hand smoke may also be more likely to have an attack.

For patients suffering from nasal inflammation, the goal is usually to relieve symptoms and treat any infections, according to WebMD. Patients might take antibiotics, as well as antihistamines or decongestants for a short time. Pain relievers may also be taken, but if they’re ineffective, a doctor may prescribe corticosteroids to ease sinus inflammation. If an allergic reaction causes sinus flare-ups, preventive allergy treatment may be needed.

According to Frederick Breathe Free's website, Dr. Jamie Oberman earned his bachelor's degree from Boston College. He pursued graduate studies at Tufts Medical School through the Navy Health Professions Scholarship Program. After completing medical school, he had a career in the Navy until his retirement in 2017, when he transitioned to comprehensive Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) medicine.