As one ages, the capacity of an ageing nose to produce mucus is reduced as the mucus membranes lining the nose (nasal mucosa) become thinner.

Poorer blood circulation to the nasal lining also results in less humidification of the air passing through the nose, resulting in nasal dryness.

Furthermore, in the elderly, the clearance of the mucus from the nose is less efficient. “The combination of a thick mucus which the body is unable to clear efficiently together with the lower immunity results in a higher risk of sinusitis in the elderly,” says Dr Teo.

Rhinitis is an inflammation of the nasal mucosa or membranes that line up the inside of the nose. Main symptoms can include a dry, irritated nose and crusting of the mucus in the nose.

Unlike rhinitis, sinusitis is an inflammation of the paranasal sinuses. These are the hollow spaces in the bones around your nose, on the forehead, behind and between the eyes, and at the back of the nasal cavity.

If rhinitis is not treated adequately, it can lead to chronic sinusitis - a prolonged sinus infection that can take weeks or months to resolve.

Due to the proximity of the sinuses to the eye and the brain, there is a potential risk of the infection spreading to these areas if it is not treated promptly.

Firstly, as older people are likely to have various chronic health conditions, they need to be aware of possible drug interactions between existing medications (e.g. drugs for heart problems) and sinus medications. For instance, decongestants may trigger faster heartbeat.

Secondly, certain over-the-counter medications used to relieve nasal congestion and nasal discharge could worsen nasal dryness and crusting of the mucus in older people with rhinitis.

Thirdly, besides sinus problems, tumors of the nasal cavity or sinus can have similar symptoms which may be difficult to differentiate without specialist assessment.

“Seek proper medical treatment for your sinus problems if you are a senior, especially if you are taking medications for high blood pressure and heart problems,” advises Dr Teo.

Ref. T12