Nasal Obstruction

30% of the population complains of breathing problems, including nasal obstruction. This issue can greatly impact the quality of life, affecting everything from sleep to eating to exercise.

What is Nasal Obstruction?

Nasal obstruction is anything that blocks the nasal cavity that makes breathing through the nose difficult. It’s usually the result of either swelling of the nasal tissue or an anatomical blockage. Because of nasal obstruction, many individuals will end up breathing completely through their mouth.

Symptoms of Nasal Obstruction

Nasal blockage or obstruction
Inability to breathe well during exercise, eating, etc.
Nasal drainage/post-nasal drip
Primarily breathing through the mouth
Facial or forehead pain and or pressure
Recurring sinus infections
Congestion or stuffiness
Problems with sleep
A voice that sounds “nasally”
Headaches

What Can Cause Nasal Obstruction?

There are multiple causes for nasal obstruction. Many individuals have narrow nasal passages and therefore problems with the septum and turbinates. Allergies can also be a culprit, leading to swelling of the sinus and nasal lining which results in obstruction.

Enlarged adenoids, polyps, a deviated septum, nasal valve collapse, weak nasal cartilage, enlarged turbinates, or naturally narrow nasal passages can also cause nasal obstruction. Medical conditions such as allergies, chronic sinus infections, environmental irritants, or the common cold can also cause nasal obstruction.

“Dr. Reitzen listened to me and took the time to explain what was wrong. Would highly recommend her.”

Monica D.

How is Nasal Obstruction Diagnosed?

Dr. Reitzen will take your medical history and listen carefully to your symptoms. She will also perform a nasal exam and may use an endoscope or a CT scan to further determine where the cause of your nasal obstruction lies. Once she has pinpointed the source of the nasal obstruction, she will walk you through your treatment options.

Options for Nasal Obstruction Treatment

The first step in treatment is usually medications such as steroids, antibiotics, or antihistamines. For many patients, this type of treatment is enough to relieve their symptoms. If medication doesn’t help, there are other procedures that can be done. This can include both surgical and non-surgical measures. Sometimes minimally invasive treatment such as radiofrequency can be effective, while in other cases, surgery is the best option. During your consultation with Dr. Reitzen, she can explain what type of procedure you will need if medication doesn’t work for you. She will walk you through the details of the procedure, recovery, and what you can expect.

Why Choose Dr. Reitzen?

You don’t have to live with continued nasal obstruction. Dr. Shari Reitzen believes that all individuals should be able to breathe freely and easily. If you’re experiencing problems breathing, work together with Dr. Reitzen to find a solution. She is a double board-certified facial plastic/reconstructive surgeon and ENT with the goal of helping you regain nasal function to breathe better. If you’re ready to live better — eat without difficulty, exercise more effectively, possibly reduce snoring, and focus on the rest of your life — make an appointment with Dr. Reitzen to learn about treatment options.