The Effect of Aging on the Nose and Paranasal Sinuses: What We Now Know and a Review of the Literature

Authors

  • Premyot Ngaotepprutaram
  • Jate Lumyongsatien

Keywords:

Aging; Elderly; Nose; Older; Olfaction; Presbynasalis; Rhinitis; Sinusitis

Abstract

    Over the past decade, the phenomenon of the aging society has become a major topic around the world, and many countries (including Thailand) are now classified as aged societies. Accordingly, the aim of this review was to provide physicians with a multi-perspective update regarding what is now known about the effect of aging on the nose and paranasal sinuses. Multiple changes in the nose and paranasal system can be observed in older aged healthy populations and rhinologic patients. Physiologic deterioration of nasal mucosa that occurs when people get older contributes to nasal obstruction, dryness, crusting, postnasal drip, and frequent throat clearing. Age-related immunosenescence renders people more vulnerable to infection, which may intensify nasal inflammation. Moreover, polypharmacy among older people requires awareness and caution on the part of the physician to decrease the risk of drug interaction and side effect. Olfactory disturbance can occur as a result of physiologic change or premotor manifestation of neurodegenerative diseases. Enhanced understanding of sinonasal change in older adults will improve diagnosis, patient care, and quality of life.

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Published

2019-05-07

How to Cite

1.
Ngaotepprutaram P, Lumyongsatien J. The Effect of Aging on the Nose and Paranasal Sinuses: What We Now Know and a Review of the Literature. SRIMEDJ [Internet]. 2019 May 7 [cited 2024 Apr. 27];34(3):303-9. Available from: https://li01.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/SRIMEDJ/article/view/187804

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Review Articles