A Nose’s Confession: I Am Fragile!

I am the nose,
the organ you rely on to breathe
and your window to perceive the world.
But you may not realize:
Though burdened with heavy responsibilities, I am fragile,
vulnerable to various diseases.

If you don’t fully understand me yet,
here’s a guide to my common symptoms.
Use it to identify issues,
better understand me, and care for me!

01
Nasal Congestion, Sneezing, Runny Nose: Rhinitis
When my mucosa is invaded by bacteria, viruses, or allergens, rhinitis strikes—especially allergic rhinitis. Once inflamed, I itch relentlessly, trigger frequent sneezing, produce watery discharge, cause severe congestion, reduce smell, and may even make your eyes or throat itchy.

For allergic rhinitis, stay vigilant against allergens like pollen, willow catkins, dust mites, mold, and pet dander. Avoid exposure whenever possible. Consider allergy testing to identify specific triggers and take targeted precautions.

02
Nasal Congestion, Purulent Discharge, Headache: Sinusitis
Surrounding my bones are four pairs of air-filled cavities: the frontal, maxillary, sphenoid, and ethmoid sinuses. Inflammation here causes sinusitis. Symptoms include congestion, thick nasal discharge, headache, localized pain, chills, fever, and loss of appetite. Children may also vomit, have diarrhea, or cough.

This is likely acute sinusitis. Timely treatment prevents progression to chronic sinusitis, which risks recurrence and complicates recovery.

03
Nasal Congestion, Headache, Nosebleeds:
Deviated Nasal Septum
Another structural issue: my nasal septum shifts sideways, forms an S-shape, or develops protrusions, disrupting nasal function—a deviated nasal septum.

Severe congestion, breathing difficulties, headaches, and nosebleeds follow. Worse, complications may arise: impaired eustachian tube function (causing ear fullness or tinnitus) or chronic mouth breathing (leading to snoring).

Normal breathing seems effortless.
As the most overlooked organ, I silently fulfill my duties. But fragile as I am, please prioritize my health. Shield me from harm, and treat existing injuries promptly.

Let me continue serving you—
as your guardian of breath,
delivering freshness, ease, and comfort!