Nasal Obstruction
What Is Nasal Obstruction?
Causes Of Nasal Obstruction
Nasal obstruction can occur for a number of reasons and can cause problems with eating, sleeping, and speaking. As something that impacts your daily life, you should look into your options at any of our Texas locations. Even though your life is likely busy, it’s worth taking the time to evaluate your nasal obstruction. However, you can’t diagnose any condition without first seeing a doctor. These are the main causes of nasal obstruction:
-
- Deviated Nasal Septum
- Turbinate Enlargement
- Nasal Polyps
- Allergies
- Sinusitis
- Variants of Normal Anatomy (Concha Bullosa)
- Adenoid Hypertrophy
- External Nasal Valve Collapse
How do you Diagnose Nasal Obstruction?
To properly diagnose your nasal obstruction, you must see a medical professional. One of our doctors will ask for a complete medical history and will perform a thorough physical examination. We will perform a nasal examination through the use of imaging, including CT scans and MRIs, when necessary.
How nasal obstructions can be treated
When it comes to nasal obstruction, there are surgical and non-surgical treatment options. Medical treatment for nasal obstruction also depends on the cause, but usually begins with a nasal spray in most situations. These sprays are topical steroids that are generally safe to take for long periods of time. There are also topical antihistamine sprays that are very effective for allergic nasal symptoms. Typically, sprays exert the most effect on the turbinates. If a non-surgical option is not effective for you, then you might need a nasal obstruction surgery that can be performed at our Mckinney, Allen, or Plano, TX Locations.
What Nasal Obstruction Surgery options are there?
Treating nasal obstruction can require surgery in some cases. In this particular case, we will address the deviated septum and turbinate hypertrophy (enlargement). The nasal septum is a fixed structure that is very frequently crooked or deviated to one side or the other. Since it’s fixed the structure does not move. Meaning if it deviates it will be an obstruction and always cause trouble with breathing. Septoplasty and Turbinate reduction are often performed together and have few major risks. Before having surgery you can discuss your options with one of our doctors.
- Septoplasty
- Turbinate Reduction
Septoplasty
A Septoplasty refers to straightening the septum so that it does not obstruct breathing. A septum can be straightened by a number of different techniques, but all currently effective techniques require surgery. Once a deviated or crooked septum is corrected, the patients breathing should improve dramatically. Making their life and breathing much easier.
Turbinate Reduction
A Turbinate Reduction refers to shrinking the turbinates so that they are smaller and less obstructive, this process also helps prevent them from being as dynamic. Turbinates can be reduced surgically which can be done either in the office or in the operating room. The office technique is quicker with good initial results that may start to wear off after a few years. The technique in the OR has excellent results which last at least 5 years and often far longer.
Patient Testimonial
“The doctors and staff are extremely professional and attentive. I had been having issues for quite a while and upon coming here, I was listened to and had a game plan to get me fixed up quickly. I won’t go anywhere else in Texas!” -Tricia
Nasal Congestion vs. Nasal Obstruction
Similar to nasal obstruction, nasal congestion can also affect a person’s daily life. With the constant trouble breathing and headaches associated with it, having nasal congestion is frustrating. Sufferers often experience a runny nose and problems with sleeping. Nasal congestion occurs when nearby tissues and blood vessels become swollen with excess fluid. Leading to the stuffy nose feeling that people tend to experience. There are many treatment options for this, and they can be done at home.
What Are The Symptoms of Nasal Congestion?
Most common signs and symptoms for nasal congestion or nasal blockage include:
- Stuffy or runny nose
- Sinus pain
- Mucus buildup
- Swollen nasal tissue
Congested nose home remedies
You can try different options at home to help alleviate the pressure caused by the nasal obstruction and open up your sinuses such as:
- Use a humidifier or vaporizer.
- Take long showers or breathe in steam from a pot of warm water.
- Drink lots of fluids. This will thin out your mucus, which could help prevent blocked sinuses.
- Use a nasal saline spray. It’s saltwater, and it will help keep your nasal passages from drying out.
- Sit a warm, wet towel on your face. It may relieve discomfort and open your nasal passages.
Schedule a Consultation
If the nasal obstruction persists and nothing helps to reduce the pressure, call our office at 972.984.1050 to schedule a consultation. Our practice serves McKinney, Allen, Plano, Celina, Frisco, Carrollton, and surrounding areas in Texas.
