Aging and Allergies

An article posted on ENTNET talks about special considerations when rhinitis and sinusitis are being experienced by older adults. The symptoms that older adults report are:

• Clear the throat constantly
• A sense of nasal blockage
• Nasal crusting
• Non-specific facial pressure
• Decreased sense of smell and taste

Even though treatment is basically the same for the elderly as it is for other adult age groups, special considerations should be made for the elderly.

As you age, the lengthening of the nose and drooping of the nasal tip causes a restriction on the flow of air, resulting in reporting of the feeling of a nasal blockage.

Those who have geriatric rhinitis report constant “sinus drainage,” constant clearing of the throat, and a feeling of nasal obstruction usually when they are lying down.  They usually have a dry, irritated nose.

Not all upper respiratory problems can be related to the aging process. If you have repeated sneezing, watery eyes, and a clear watery runny nose, you may have allergic rhinitis.

Chronic sinusitis patients will have a long history of thick drainage that occurs along with headaches and facial pressure. A doctor can confirm the diagnosis.