The primary purpose of your nose is to help you breathe by inhaling and exhaling oxygen for your body. Although we can use our mouth as a secondary option, the nose is designed as the primary source for this function. Unfortunately, some people experience chronic congestion or sinusitis, hindering their ability to breathe through their nose. If you are one of these individuals and find it difficult to breathe through your nose regularly, it may not just be a result of a cold, allergies, or weather changes. There could be deeper reasons and many reasons behind the causes of a stuffy nose. It could be due to an issue with your nasal anatomy.
Otolaryngologists, commonly called ear, nose, and throat doctors, treat nasal congestion and chronic sinusitis through non-surgical methods that address the root causes. We evaluate any anatomical changes contributing to breathing difficulties and persistent nasal congestion during treatment.
What are the Causes of a Stuffy Nose?
Chronic Congestion Can be Caused by Anatomy
If you have a persistent stuffy nose, it could be due to factors beyond your control. It may not just be allergies or a cold but rather an underlying structural abnormality or obstruction in your nasal passages. An otolaryngologist will examine potential anatomical causes when ruling out allergies or illness.
Deviated Septum
If the wall separating your nostrils is crooked, you may have a deviated septum. This condition can make it tough to breathe through one or both nostrils.
Chronic Sinusitis
Sinusitis is when the sinuses get inflamed, leading to congestion and pressure in the face. This condition is considered chronic if the symptoms last more than 12 weeks, even after treatment.
Turbinate Hypertrophy
In cases where the inferior turbinate within the nasal cavity undergoes swelling or enlargement, it may impede the individual’s capacity to breathe normally.
Nasal Polyps
Are growths that occur in the lining of the nasal passages and can cause congestion. These growths are generally not cancerous.
The Signs and Symptoms that Go Beyond Difficulty Breathing
Experiencing anatomical variations can lead to various symptoms and disruptions in your daily life, such as nasal obstruction, headaches, sinus pressure, and post-nasal drip. Poor breathing through the nose can result in poor sleep, low energy, and difficulty breathing during exercise. Addressing these structural issues in the nose can bring life-changing relief and improve your quality of life. If you frequently struggle to breathe through both sides of your nose, don’t assume it’s allergies. Contact us today if you would like an evaluation of your nose and sinuses to determine the precise cause of your poor airflow.