Drug – bio-affecting and body treating compositions – Preparations characterized by special physical form – Implant or insert
Reexamination Certificate
2001-02-16
2002-02-05
Page, Thurman K. (Department: 1615)
Drug, bio-affecting and body treating compositions
Preparations characterized by special physical form
Implant or insert
C424S434000
Reexamination Certificate
active
06344210
ABSTRACT:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates to a composition that is applied to a person's nostrils and sinus cavities, using an inhaler or other suitable means, for cleansing, freshening and deodorizing the named areas for controlling halitosis.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Conventional control of halitosis or “bad breath”, as it is often termed, is presently accomplished through the use of mouthwashes, breath mints, candy, chewing gum, brushing and flossing teeth, and other such means that are taken by mouth. Recent developments in this field have focused on the theory that the digestive organs can be responsible for objectionable odors that are produced from consuming certain foods or liquids.
Many problems have been associated with inadequate cleansing of the nasal and sinus cavities. For examples, smokers of cigars and cigarettes often have a particular form of fetid breath known as “smoker's breath.” Further, other individuals suffering from problems associated with the nasal passages and sinus cavities become addicted to over-the-counter medicated nasal and sinus sprays. Active ingredients in these sprays alter normal body functions in order to achieve short-term results. Prolonged use of medicated sprays frequently results in user dependency. In many cases this occurs long after the original symptoms for which the sprays were intended have run their course.
Additionally, a particular type of fetid breath originates in an area deep within the throat, near the extreme rear of the tongue, where the sphenoid sinus drains into the throat. Bacteria buildup in this area produces sulfurous gases which results in accumulative fetid breath. Small plastic devices, described as tongue scrapers, are a common method people often use in an attempt to dislodge the bacterial build up as they attempt to combat this type of fetid breath; however, many of the users of these devices report vexatious retching with foreign objects placed so deeply within the throat.
Further, some individuals living in harsh, cold climates often associated with mountainous living, reported they frequently experience cracking and bleeding of the nasal passages. These same individuals reported their home interior heating is often very dry, resulting in a mild form of sleep distress.
Individuals living in certain parts of the country such as farm belts and urban suburbs frequently must contend with very high pollen concentrations contaminating the atmosphere. This environmental condition often results in distressed breathing among a great number of people because their airways become heavily taxed when the pollen, which resembles a very fine dust, becomes entrapped in their nose and sinuses. The pollen also results in sneezing and watery eyes.
Certain geographic areas, such as large, industrialized cities have very poor air quality due to high concentrations of airborne pollution caused by industrial and engine emissions, as well as common mold spores, dust and other hazardous particulates. The pollutants can lodge or even clog the nasal passages and sinus, possibly leading to infection.
Another problem associated with the sinuses is sinusitis, an infection of one or more of the sinus cavities, caused by fungus. Once infected, the lining of the sinus cavity becomes swollen, causing a buildup of fluid or mucus. This buildup is responsible for symptoms such as congestion, runny nose, headache pain and sinus pressure.
Not to be confused with chronic sleep disorders, some individuals snore due to obstructed nasal passages. The individuals who exhibit this condition also frequently experience an extreme dryness in their mouth. Much the same as with individuals seeking relief from snoring due to obstructed nasal passages, many other individuals have difficulty sleeping for the same reason “obstructed nasal passages”.
A further possible problem with nasal and sinus passages is associated with the “common cold”, a minor respiratory illnesses caused by a variety of different respiratory viruses. Symptoms of nasal discharge, nasal congestion and sneezing are usually present from the first day and usually progress to maximum severity by the second or third day. The cost of treatment with over-the-counter medications and outpatient clinics is estimated at more than $6.5 billion annually, all related to the relief of symptoms. The symptomatic treatment available often contains one or more antihistamines, decongestants, antitussives and expectorants, as well as other types of pharmaceutical actives. For individuals with certain medical conditions such as heart disease, hypertension, diabetes or thyroid disorder, these active ingredients could pose a risk.
In a wide range of respiratory infections, increased nasal secretion of mucus greatly reduces the efficiency of the sense of smell and taste, and also frequently creates the sensation of unusual taste and smell. This is sometimes reported as a “metallic effect”. A heavy cold has a similar effect of damping odor sensitivity by the over-production of mucus and the swelling of the nasal membranes. A specific infection of the olfactory membrane, known as rhinitis, may result in an altered or total, temporary loss of smell. The same effect may stem from a number of allergies, all of which are associated with nasal congestion.
Other individuals having problems with nasal and sinus passages are those recovering from post operative medical care that are frequently required to visit an ear, nose and throat specialist (ENT) for sinus and nasal irrigation procedures. In these procedures, solutions are forced, under pressure, into the patient's affected areas for cleansing.
Some individuals who are required to communicate extensively, such as sales people and teachers, frequently experience excessive dryness of the mouth and nose. This dryness often results in unusual bad breath, as well as a soreness and discomfort of the throat.
Further, an altered sensitivity to odors is commonly encountered during pregnancy. Substances previously pleasant smelling may become repugnant to expectant mothers. The exact reason for this condition is not known, but the body's changed hormonal state exerts an influence on the olfactory membrane, frequently causing it to swell. Additionally, nasal blockage is commonly associated with pregnancy.
In today's market place, one can find health care products related to every conceivable hygienic purpose except for the nose and sinuses. For existing oral care products, what are often marketed as “new and improved formulas” are actually nothing more than old concepts. Mouthwash rinses are used to flush the mouth with bacteria killing agents and, in most cases, with additives of various types designed to freshen the mouth and mask odors. Bacterial elimination is normally accomplished by the use of alcohol and/or various dilutions of saline solution. The use of alcohol in these products often causes the intrusive effect experienced by many persons as a burning sensation. Saline solutions are very effective bacteria killing agents and do not cause the burning sensation; however, the taste is not well received by most consumers. While somewhat effective in some cases, mouthwashes and other oral means of controlling breath odors may not be completely effective in solving many of the problems noted above.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
It is, therefore, one of the principal objects of the present invention to freshen breath and eliminate or mask objectionable breath odors by introducing the composition of the present invention into the nostrils and therethrough, into the sinus cavities.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a composition which may be conveniently introduced through the nose with, for example, an inhaler or atomizer-type container and which causes no discomfort to the user. A further object of the present invention is to provide an effective means of breath odor control as a substitute or supplement to conventional therapies and which has both immediate and residual effect.
These and additional objects are attained by
Bennett Rachel M.
Kayden James W.
Page Thurman K.
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