Nasal Obstruction Specialist in Oklahoma City
Dr. El Rassi is fellowship trained with extensive experience treating patients with nasal obstruction. If you are experiencing symptoms of nasal obstruction or have been diagnosed, call our office to schedule an appointment today!
Nasal obstruction occurs when there is blockage of airflow within the nasal passages. This can be due to inflammation and swelling of nasal tissues or may be due to anatomic blockage. Nasal obstruction can affect an individual’s ability to exercise or may interfere with day-to-day activities including sleep. Common causes of nasal obstruction include:
- Allergies
- Nasal tumor (rare)
- Sinusitis
- Lateral wall collapse (often referred to as nasal valve collapse)
- Common cold or upper respiratory infection – Standard colds and flus are likely to block the airways temporarily as they fill up with excess mucus. Infections of the nasal passages can also lead to swelling and difficulty breathing, but should clear up quickly after being treated with antibiotics.
- Nasal polyps – Nasal polyps are benign masses of tissue that grow within the lining of the nose. When these growths become large enough, they begin to protrude into the nasal passageway and can restrict airflow through this area.
- Deviated septum – Another important structure within the nose is the septum, which is the piece of flexible cartilage that separates the two nostrils. If the septum is not in its proper place, it can cause an obstruction to one or both of the nasal passages.
- Inferior turbinate hypertrophy – Although the name of this condition may sound incredibly intimidating and complex, it is really nothing more than bony structures that exist within the nose. These structures are called turbinates, and they are often quite sensitive to allergens or irritations that enter the nasal cavity. When irritated, the turbinates usually swell, which often makes breathing through the nose very difficult.
- Adenoid hypertrophy (uncommon in adults) – The adenoids exist behind the nasal cavity, and may become enlarged due to an infection within the body. No matter what the cause, if the adenoids become large enough, they will begin to close off the airway between the nasal cavity and the throat, making breathing nearly impossible unless it is done through the mouth.
- Choanal atresia (extremely rare) – Choanal atresia is a congenital condition, meaning that it is present at the time the person is born. This condition involves a narrowed or blocked nasal airway that is caused by excess tissue in the nasal cavity.
While nasal obstruction secondary to the common cold is temporary and will resolve with time, persistent nasal obstruction should undergo a professional evaluation to identify the cause.
How is Nasal Obstruction Treated?
Nasal obstruction treatment typically involves an initial trial of a nasal steroid spray to address any component of blockage related to inflammation and swelling of nasal tissues. To determine efficacy, it is recommended that patient use the nasal steroid spray at least once daily for 4-6 weeks consecutively. When this is ineffective, surgery may be considered to address anatomic components resulting in blockage and may include any of the following procedures:
- Septoplasty – Surgery to straighten the septum.
- Inferior turbinate reduction – Surgery to reduce the size of the inferior turbinates.
- Latera nasal implant – An implant placed beneath the skin to support the lateral wall and
minimize collapse. - Septorhinoplasty – A reconstructive surgery when the outside of the nose and/or the nasal support structures are significantly deviated or deficient. This surgery is typically done by a facial plastic surgeon but is covered by insurance when performed to improve nasal breathing.
- Adenoidectomy – Removal of prominent adenoid tissue.
It is important to note that surgery for nasal obstruction is elective and additional medical treatment options exist for those not interested in surgery.
Schedule an Appointment in Oklahoma City, OK
If you are experiencing difficulty breathing through your nose and would like to have a detailed evaluation with individually tailored treatment options, call our office in Oklahoma City at (405) 271-1368 or fill out the online appointment request form to schedule an appointment and discuss your nasal obstruction with Dr. El Rassi.