Nasal obstruction refers to anything that blocks the easy flow of air through your nose. It can leave you feeling like your nose is full or you can’t take a deep breath. Other symptoms that may arise from nasal obstruction include pain or pressure in the face, runny nose, changes in sense of smell, snoring and mouth breathing.
Let’s take a look at a few common causes of nasal obstruction and how you can manage them.
Deviated Septum
When the cartilage and bone dividing your nasal cavity are crooked or off-center, as is the case with a deviated septum, air can feel restricted. Mild deviation isn’t usually a big deal. Most people don’t even notice it. Your provider may recommend a septoplasty if the deviation is bad enough to cause symptoms.
During a septoplasty, your sinus specialist will reshape or remove bone and cartilage for better alignment. The procedure usually takes between 30 and 90 minutes.
Nasal Polyps
Nasal polyps are tear-shaped, noncancerous growths that form in the lining of your nose or sinuses. Although they’re usually small and painless, they can get irritated and swollen, obstructing your breathing and causing congestion, runny nose, headache, nosebleeds, postnasal drip, snoring and sinus pressure. If nasal polyps cause issues, your provider may recommend a polypectomy to remove them.
In some cases, they may perform a Balloon Sinuplasty or functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) to remove blockages or widen the nasal passages.
Sinus or Nasal Infection
Your sinuses and nasal passages are lined with tissues. A sinus or nasal infection can arise when something like allergens, frequent nose blowing or chronic congestion irritates the tissues, leading to blocked airflow.
To help minimize inflammation, avoid known allergens and seek help from an ENT or sinus specialist if you develop frequent or long-lasting infections. Your specialist may recommend a Balloon Sinuplasty to widen the sinuses to minimize your risk for recurring infections.
Enlarged Adenoids
Adenoids are germ-trapping glands behind the nasal passage. They usually begin to shrink around age five and disappear by adulthood. Enlarged adenoids are the most common cause of childhood nasal obstruction. Inflammation usually arises when your child is trying to fight off another condition, like an ear or upper respiratory infection.
Your ENT specialist will likely start by addressing the underlying cause of adenoid inflammation. A few common treatments include antibiotics, antihistamines and corticosteroids. If medication doesn’t work, they may recommend an adenoidectomy to remove the adenoids.
If you’re living with a frequently recurring or long-lasting nasal obstruction, contact Alpine Ear Nose & Throat PC today to make an appointment with one of our specialists for a diagnosis and treatment plan.