Find the Cause of Blocked Breathing
Discover what is making it difficult to breathe comfortably through your nose.
What May Be Blocking Your Nasal Breathing?
Nasal obstruction means having difficulty breathing through one or both nostrils. It is a common ENT concern and can develop from structural problems, inflammation inside the nose, or both. Finding the specific source of the blockage is important for determining the appropriate treatment.
Structural Problems That Restrict Airflow
Deviated Nasal Septum
Deviated Nasal Septum
The wall separating the nostrils is displaced, which can narrow the nasal airway on one or both sides.
Enlarged Turbinates
Enlarged Turbinates
These structures help warm and filter incoming air, but chronic enlargement can limit airflow through the nose.
Nasal Valve Collapse
Nasal Valve Collapse
Narrowing or weakness of the nasal valve, the narrowest part of the nasal airway, can make breathing more difficult, particularly when inhaling.
Nasal Polyps
Nasal Polyps
Soft tissue growths that may narrow or completely block the nasal passages.
Inflammation That Can Cause Blockage
Allergic rhinitis
Nonallergic rhinitis
Chronic sinusitis
Finding the Source of Nasal Blockage
Nasal endoscopy allows me to examine the nasal passages directly and look for structural or mucosal abnormalities. CT imaging may be used when sinus disease is suspected or when surgery needs to be planned.
Treatment Based on the Cause
Treatment varies according to what is causing the obstruction. Inflammatory blockage may improve with nasal steroid sprays and allergy management. Structural problems involving the septum, turbinates, or nasal polyps may require surgery when symptoms remain significant despite medical treatment.