ABSTRACT
The effect of the tonicity of saline nasal douching solutions on mucociliary clearance was studied in order to ascertain whether hypertonicity conferred any advantage. Thirty-eight normal subjects were included in a randomised double-blind crossover trial. Saline douching solutions of 0.9%, 3% and 5% tonicity were used and mucociliary clearance was measured by the saccharin clearance time (SCT). The resultant SCT after administration of 5% saline was significantly reduced compared to both 0.9% (P = 0.005) and 3% saline (P = 0.04). There was no difference between 0.9% and 3% saline administration. Thus hypertonic saline solutions improve mucociliary clearance, although this was only observed with solutions of 5% tonicity. The effect is probably brought about by changes in mucus rheology.
Subject(s)
Mucociliary Clearance/drug effects , Nasal Mucosa/drug effects , Nasal Obstruction/drug therapy , Saline Solution, Hypertonic/pharmacology , Adult , Cross-Over Studies , Double-Blind Method , Female , Humans , Male , Middle Aged , Rheology , Saccharin/pharmacokinetics , Sweetening Agents/pharmacokinetics , Sweetening Agents/therapeutic useABSTRACT
We report a case of an impacted foreign body in the tonsil presenting as recurrent unilateral tonsillitis. A completely embedded foreign body should be considered in cases of recurrent unilateral tonsillitis.
Subject(s)
Foreign Bodies , Palatine Tonsil , Tonsillitis/etiology , Child , Female , Humans , RecurrenceABSTRACT
The surgical management of intractable epistaxis by external carotid artery ligation may become complicated if there is a high bifurcation of the common carotid artery. Occlusion of the bleeding vessels by catheter embolization is described in a patient in whom exploration of the neck had failed to locate the external carotid artery.
Subject(s)
Embolization, Therapeutic , Epistaxis/diagnostic imaging , Epistaxis/therapy , Aged , Carotid Artery, Common/diagnostic imaging , Chronic Disease , Epistaxis/etiology , Female , Humans , Nasal Polyps/complications , Radiography , Thrombocytopenia/complicationsABSTRACT
A survey of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS)-related knowledge and attitudes was conducted during July and August 1988 in rural SW Uganda. The aim was to assess the impact of Uganda's AIDS education programme and to consider how future programmes could be more effectively implemented. Four hundred and seventy-six individuals aged 12-45 years were selected by a quota method, to form a sample stratified by age and sex. Mass AIDS education has successfully raised levels of knowledge but misconceptions persist. However, it has failed, firstly, to stress the urgency of AIDS as a personal issue, and secondly, to change negative attitudes toward people with AIDS: 57% would avoid or stigmatise an individual with AIDS. Unexpectedly, findings show that a correlation exists (P less than 0.05) between high levels of 'correct' beliefs and negative attitudes toward people with AIDS. To achieve future behavioural and attitude changes, possible ways forward for Ugandan AIDS education include involvement of HIV carriers in education, small-scale targetted approaches developed by active participation of the target group and through role playing of people with AIDS.
