Difficulty Breathing Through the Nose – Causes, Diagnosis and Treatment

Difficulty Breathing Through the Nose – Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment at Emirates Hospital Group

Difficulty breathing through the nose, also known as nasal obstruction, is a common symptom that can affect people of all ages. It can manifest as a stuffy nose, congestion, or a complete blockage of airflow through one or both nostrils. Nasal obstruction can cause discomfort, impair sleep, and limit daily activities.

Causes of Difficulty Breathing Through the Nose

Allergies: Allergies to pollen, dust mites, pet dander, or other airborne irritants can cause inflammation and swelling of the nasal passages, leading to nasal obstruction.

Sinusitis: Sinusitis is an inflammation of the sinuses, air-filled cavities located around the nasal passages. When the sinuses become inflamed, they can produce mucus, which can block the nasal passages and make breathing difficult.

Deviated septum: A deviated septum occurs when the bone and cartilage that divide the nostrils are misaligned, causing one nostril to be narrower than the other. This can obstruct airflow and lead to difficulty breathing through the nose.

Nasal polyps: Nasal polyps are soft, painless growths that form in the nasal passages. They can obstruct airflow and cause difficulty breathing through the nose.

Infections: Infections, such as the common cold, influenza, or bacterial infections, can cause inflammation and swelling of the nasal passages, leading to nasal obstruction.

Foreign objects: Foreign objects lodged in the nose, such as a piece of food or a toy, can block airflow and cause difficulty breathing.

Nasal trauma: Injuries to the nose, such as a broken nose or damage to the nasal septum, can cause swelling, bleeding, and difficulty breathing through the nose.

Tumors: In rare cases, tumors in the nasal passages can cause nasal obstruction.

Asthma: Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition characterized by inflammation and narrowing of the airways. Nasal congestion is a common symptom of asthma.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD): COPD is a group of lung diseases that includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis. Nasal congestion can be a symptom of COPD, especially in advanced stages.

Heart failure: In severe cases of heart failure, fluid can back up in the lungs and cause congestion, including nasal congestion.

Kidney disease: Kidney disease can lead to fluid retention, which can cause congestion in the lungs and nasal passages.

If you are experiencing difficulty breathing through the nose, it is important to consult a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent complications and improve your breathing and overall health.