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The prime function of the nose is to air condition inspired air — the air we breathe in. The structure of the nose is dictated by this function. There is a coarse sieving of hairs within the nostrils, called the nasal vibrissae, and a finer sieve — the nasal mucosa — which lines the nostrils with mucus. Both these filters out dust and other particle are from the incoming air. The sense of smell monitors inspired air, and a reflex action — the sneeze — totally clears the nasal and mouth passages when all else fails. Read the rest of this entry »

I used to sneeze a lot and have a permanently blocked nose, but I found that using a spray I bought from the chemist helped. I now find I have to use it in increasing amounts to obtain relief. Is it safe to continue?

You ought to see your doctor. Many people unwittingly cause permanent damage to the lining of the nose with these preparations which tend to become decreasingly effective. Your doctor will be able to give you a prescription for a medication which does not damage the nose, or send you to an ear, nose and throat surgeon. Read the rest of this entry »

Nowadays, however, smelling salts are defined more clearly as a mixture of ammonium carbonate or ammonium bicarbonate crystals and aromatic substances such as eucalyptus oil. This mixture gives off pungent fumes which, when inhaled by someone who feels faint or is unconscious, help to revive him. The main restorative agent in smelling salts is the ammonium compound. If pure ammonia is inhaled it causes considerable damage to the lungs, Read the rest of this entry »