Chronic mouth breathing caused by obstructed nasal passages is an annoying, uncomfortable condition that can result in not getting enough sleep and, in some cases, complications in other parts of the respiratory system. Accurately diagnosing and treating nasal obstructions can greatly improve your quality of life.
What causes nasal obstructions?
Anything that hinders airflow in and out of the nose is considered a nasal obstruction. It can affect one or both nasal passages and is usually caused by swollen nasal tissue or a structural issue narrowing the nasal cavity.
Here are some of the most common causes:
Deviated septum: The septum is the thin wall (septum) separating the nasal passages. Displacement of the septum can cause difficulty breathing through one or both sides of the nose.
Nasal polyps: Nasal polyps are soft, painless, noncancerous growths that develop on the lining of the nasal passages or sinuses. They can block nasal passages and make breathing difficult. Tumors, either benign or malignant, may also result in difficulty breathing through the nose.
Enlarged turbinates: Turbinates are structures inside the nose that help filter, warm, and humidify air as it passes through. When they become enlarged (hypertrophy), they can obstruct airflow.
Chronic sinusitis: Inflammation of the nasal passages and sinuses lasting 12 weeks or longer is considered chronic sinusitis. This inflammation can lead to nasal congestion and obstruction.
Allergic rhinitis: Also known as hay fever, allergic rhinitis is an allergic reaction that causes inflammation in the nasal passages. This inflammation can result in congestion and difficulty breathing through the nose.
Enlarged adenoids: Adenoids are tissue similar to tonsils but located in the back of the nose. In children, large adenoids frequently cause nasal obstruction.
Nasal valve collapse: When the angle between the nasal septum—the dividing wall of the nose—and the nostril walls is too narrow, it can lead to a sensation of nasal obstruction.
An ENT doctor spends 4 years at college, 4 years at medical school, and then 5 to 7 years after that in a residency program specializing in otolaryngology — head and neck surgery. Our board-certified ENTs pass written and oral exams and participate in continuous education to maintain their certification. When you visit one of our Arizona locations, you can trust you're seeing one of the most qualified specialists in the region and that your care will be second to none.
Diagnosing Nasal Obstruction Causes
Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment of nasal obstruction. Otolaryngologists use various methods to determine the cause and severity of the condition. A thorough examination using lighted scopes is often the first step to determine if inflammation or a structural issue is causing the obstruction.
Your physician may also order a sinus imaging evaluation using either a CT scan or MRI. Allergy testing is also used to diagnose the cause of chronic mouth breathing.
Nasal Obstruction Treatment Options
Treatment for nasal obstruction varies depending on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. The most common approaches include:
Medications: Nasal corticosteroid sprays, antihistamines, and decongestants can help reduce inflammation and congestion in cases of allergic rhinitis or mild chronic sinusitis.
Surgery: Structural issues blocking airways can often require surgical treatment. Septoplasty straightens and repositions a deviated septum to improve airflow. Turbinate reduction surgery is an option if medications don’t shrink enlarged turbinates.
Functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS): This minimally invasive procedure can help remove nasal polyps, clear blocked sinuses, and improve drainage in cases of chronic sinusitis.
Immunotherapy: If you’ve been diagnosed with severe allergic rhinitis, allergen immunotherapy (allergy shots or sublingual drops) can help reduce your body’s sensitivity to specific allergens.
Traditionally, nasal valve collapse required rhinoplasty surgery to correct the condition. However, new treatment modalities have replaced this need. These include the Latera® absorbable nasal implant and the minimally invasive Vivaer® treatment.
Home remedies such as nasal strips or dilators sold at drug stores can help open nasal passages and improve airflow. These are especially helpful for breathing difficulties at night.
Being prepared will help you get the most out of your appointment. Please bring a list of medications you're currently taking and any pertinent test results—such as labs or imaging—to your appointment. Additionally, let your provider know of any drug allergies or medical conditions you have or for which you are being treated and if you've had any prior surgical procedures.
Visit Our ENT Specialists
Nasal obstruction can significantly impact quality of life, but with proper diagnosis and treatment, most patients can find relief. If you’re experiencing persistent nasal congestion or difficulty breathing through your nose, it’s important to consult with an otolaryngologist. They can provide a comprehensive evaluation and develop a personalized treatment plan to address your specific needs and improve your nasal breathing.