Nasal Obstruction

Nasal Obstruction services offered in Hollywood, FL

Nasal obstruction can make it difficult to breathe comfortably through one or both sides of your nose. At the Ear, Nose, Throat, and Sinus Center of South Florida in Hollywood, Florida, ENT specialist Craig Shapiro, DO, evaluates the underlying cause of nasal blockage and recommends appropriate treatment. If you have persistent nasal congestion or difficulty breathing through your nose, call the Ear, Nose, Throat, and Sinus Center of South Florida to arrange an evaluation or book an appointment online today.

Nasal Obstruction Q & A

What causes nasal obstruction?

Nasal obstruction develops when something narrows or blocks the nasal passages. The problem may come from swelling inside the nose, structural abnormalities, growths, or a combination of factors.

Possible causes include:

Rhinitis (including hay fever)
A deviated nasal septum
Enlarged turbinates
Nasal polyps
Chronic sinus inflammation
Nasal valve collapse
Previous nasal injury
Enlarged adenoids, particularly in children
Tumors or other abnormal growths, although these are uncommon

Temporary congestion from a cold can also obstruct the nose. Ongoing or frequently recurring symptoms require an ENT evaluation.

What symptoms can nasal obstruction cause?

The most obvious symptom is difficulty moving air through the nose. Some people notice a blockage mainly on one side, while others have problems with both nostrils.

Nasal obstruction may also cause:

Mouth breathing
Snoring
Reduced sense of smell
Dry mouth, particularly after sleeping
Facial pressure or congestion
Difficulty exercising comfortably
Frequent sinus infections
Disturbed sleep

Symptoms may change depending on your body position, allergen exposure, and the time of day.

How does an ENT specialist diagnose nasal obstruction?

Dr. Shapiro begins by reviewing your symptoms and medical history, then examines the inside of your nose. He looks for:

Swelling
Septal deviation
Enlarged turbinates
Polyps
Other abnormalities that could restrict airflow

An ENT examination may include nasal endoscopy, which uses a thin instrument with a light and camera to view areas farther inside the nasal passages. Imaging, allergy testing, or other investigations may be appropriate when sinus disease, allergies, or another underlying condition could be contributing to the obstruction.

Identifying the cause is important because different types of nasal obstruction require varying treatments.

How is nasal obstruction treated?

Treatment depends on what’s blocking the nasal passages. Medication helps when inflammation or allergies contribute to the problem. These include saline rinses, corticosteroid nasal sprays, and antihistamines.

Structural problems may need procedural or surgical treatment. For example, septoplasty can straighten a significantly deviated septum, while turbinate reduction can create more room for airflow when enlarged turbinates cause persistent blockage.

Nasal polyps may also require medical treatment or removal when they continue to obstruct breathing. Some people have more than one cause of obstruction, so treatment may address both inflammation and nasal structure.

Persistent difficulty breathing through your nose deserves a closer look. Call the Ear, Nose, Throat, and Sinus Center of South Florida to schedule an evaluation or complete the online booking form today.