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INFLAMMATION OF THE NOSE, SINUSES, AND THROAT
Inflammation of the membranes of the nose, the sinuses, and throat is a frequent, annoying difficulty. These conditions are called by various names, such as ‘catarrh,’ ‘postnasal drip,’ ‘sinusitis,’ ‘irritated throat,’ and ‘smoker’s cough.’ They can be caused by a number of conditions in addition to colds, for example, infectious diseases; decayed teeth; enlarged, infected tonsils and adenoids; allergies; irritation by smoke and dry or dusty air; vitamin deficiencies.
Here, I want to emphasize certain other important points.
Proper treatment of irritations of the nose, sinuses, and throat depends on finding the cause. That is why you should sec a doctor promptly. Do not wait until the condition becomes severe or chronic.
I realize that, unfortunately, many people will not see a doctor for mild cases of these nuisance ailments. Nose drops, sprays, and inhalers should not be used unless they are prescribed by a doctor. They can do far more harm than good—for example, by irritating the membranes that may be causing the trouble simply because they are unusually sensitive. Here are some suggestions for temporary relief of certain conditions, if you cannot see a doctor.
Catarrh (postnasal drip)
Avoid cold and dry air and cigarette smoke. Keep one or more pans of water in the room, preferably on or near the radiator. Stay indoors, if possible, on a cold, raw day; if you go out, wear warm clothing and do not get chilled. Blow your nose gently. Although the accumulation of mucus is unpleasant and irritating, it does not poison you or upset your digestion if swallowed.
Sinusitis
Avoid cold and dry air, as I explain above. If the pain is severe, inhaling the steamy vapour rising from a basin of hot water may bring relief, but be careful not to use boiling water, as the steam would be scalding. An electric heating pad or a hot-water bag, protected by a cloth cover to prevent burns, may be helpful if applied over the painful area on the face or forehead for ten minutes every two hours. Take an aspirin every two or three hours.
Irritated throat and smoker’s cough
Stop smoking or cut down on it drastically; or try filter-tip cigarettes or a holder with a filter in it. Gargle with a third glassful of water in which two aspirins have been dissolved, then swallow the solution. If this method gags you (as it may, especially in the morning when the symptoms are most in need of relief), try plain warm water as a gargle, or chewing gum followed by a soothing throat lozenge. Avoid breathing through the mouth.
If these simple methods do not bring relief, be sure to see a doctor before these nuisance ailments develop into something more than a nuisance. They may be symptoms of more serious illnesses.
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