Nasal Obstruction
BLOCKAGE
Overview
Nasal obstruction refers to a condition in which there is a partial or complete blockage of one or both nasal passages, making it difficult to breathe through the nose.
This blockage can result from various underlying causes and can be temporary or chronic.
Symptoms
Symptoms of nasal obstruction include, but are not limited to:
Difficulty breathing through the nose.
Congestion or stuffiness.
Snoring, especially when nasal obstruction occurs during sleep.
Reduced sense of smell.
Postnasal drip.
Frequent nosebleeds.
Headaches, facial pain, or pressure (especially if sinusitis is a contributing factor).
Causes
Nasal obstruction occurs when one or both nasal passages are partially or completely blocked, making it difficult to breathe through the nose. Common causes include structural issues like a deviated septum or nasal polyps, allergies such as allergic rhinitis, viral infections, chronic sinusitis, enlarged turbinates, and, rarely, nasal tumors or growths.
The underlying cause determines the appropriate treatment, which can range from medications for allergies and infections to surgical interventions for structural abnormalities.
