Sinusitis and Mucous Membrane - Topic Overview
The nose and the sinuses are lined with a membrane that produces mucus.
- When air enters the nose, it is warmed, moistened, and filtered before passing into the lungs.
- Dust, smoke, bacteria, and other irritants often become trapped in the mucus that lines the nasal passages.
- This mucus is pushed to the back of the throat by tiny hairs (cilia) that line the inside of the sinuses and nose, and the mucus is eventually swallowed.
If the mucous membrane becomes inflamed, it may swell, blocking the openings that drain the sinuses. Mucus inside the sinuses then becomes trapped. Both the inflammation and the pressure of trapped mucus cause pain. Also, bacteria trapped in the mucus can grow, causing a bacterial sinus infection.
Allergy Tips: Your Outdoor Exercise Checklist
If you have allergies, you might feel like outdoor exercise detracts from your health more than it adds. Exercise is supposed to make you feel good. But if a quick jog or a bike ride leaves you wheezing, sneezing, and feeling miserable for hours afterwards, how healthy can it be? But all of us -- allergic or not -- need to exercise regularly for our overall health. And the good news is that you can, even if you're exposed to outdoor allergens. "People with allergies and asthma should be able to...
Read the Allergy Tips: Your Outdoor Exercise Checklist article > >
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