GLOSSARY

Atrophic rhinitis
Chronic rhinitis (inflammation of the nasal mucosa) is associated with thinning of the nasal mucosa, crusting and foul-smelling discharge.

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Cilia
Small, hair-like structures in the nose that act as an air filter and sweep away mucous to keep the nose clean.

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Corticosteroid
Any of the steroids released from the adrenal cortex. Synthetic versions are used clinically to treat various diseases, for hormone replacement, for anti-inflammatory activity and to suppress the immune system.

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Decongestant
A type of medication that is used to constrict blood vessels in the nasal passages helping to reduce congestion and swelling of the nose.

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Glycol
A diacid alcohol: it is a thick, sweet liquid that is produced artificially to resemble an intermediate compound between ordinary ethyl alcohol and glycerin. Glycol is a good lubricant and moisturizer.

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Hypersensitivity
A state in which the body reacts with an exaggerated immune response to a foreign substance or antigen, in some cases a medication.

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Infectious Rhinitis
The common cold: a viral infection of the nasal mucosa that leads to mild cell inflammation and significant nasal discharge (runny nose).

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Lipid pneumonia
A condition characterized by inflammation and fibrous changes in the lung caused by the accumulation of oily substances (such as Vaseline).

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Medicamentosa rhinitis
Rebound congestion and inflammation of the nasal membranes caused by overuse of nasal decongestants.

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Mucus
Slimy substance in the nasal passage that helps to lubricate the nose. It also eliminates bacteria and dirt from the nose.

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Mucus membranes (mucosa)
Mucous membranes contain glands that secrete mucous to help keep the cavity lining lubricated. They can be found in the inner lining of the mouth, nasal passages and various other areas of the body.

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Nasal infection
Infection of the nasal mucosa.

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Nasal moisturizer
An oily or slippery substance that is applied in the nasal passages to help keep the nose moist.

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Nasal membrane
See Mucus Membranes.

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Nasal passages
A portion of the respiratory passages it is the cavity inside the nose that is lined with the nasal mucosa through which air is passed, heated and cleaned before reaching the lungs.

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Nasal polyps
Small, sac-like growths made up of inflamed nasal mucosa that project into the nasal passages. Commonly found in individuals who suffer from asthma, allergies or hay fever.

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Nasal steroid
A corticosteroid that is sprayed into the nose to relieve inflammation and provide relief from sneezing, congestion and runny nose.

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Nosebleed
Loss of blood from the nasal membrane usually restricted to one side of the nose. Nosebleeds can be caused by an excessively dry nose, forceful blowing of the nose and nose picking, and other trauma to the nose.

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Rebound congestion
Congestion of the nose that occurs upon discontinuation of medication in individuals who have over used nasal decongestants.

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Rhinitis
Inflammation of the nasal mucosa.

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Saline solution
A solution of 0.9% sodium chloride in water used in nasal sprays to help wash out the nose and temporarily relieve congestion.

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Vasomotor rhinitis
A chronic runny nose and blood vessel congestion of the nasal mucosa in the absence of infection or allergy.

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