One reason may be from a trauma or injury to the nose. Some patient’s noses may have been twisted since birth. In these cases where the outside structure of the nose is crooked, our surgeons will recommend a functional rhinoplasty as it offers good results. In others, the outside of the nose may appear fine, but the inside of the nose is crooked. The most common structural problem inside the nose is a deviated septum, which we can correct through a procedure called a Septoplasty.

Nasal Inflammation

Inflammation of the lining of the nose can cause swelling inside the nose, blocking airflow. Turbinates are structures in the nose that are covered with the sinus lining. Irritation of the lining may be caused by allergies (hay fever), irritants in the air, certain nose sprays (rhinitis medicamentosa), or the common cold. Usually medication can help decrease this swelling, but for patients who have tried medication without success, we may suggest a Turbinate Reduction.

Bacterial or Viral Infection

A bacterial or viral infection (like a cold) leads to excess blood flow in the lining of the nose, causing swelling along with the increased production of mucus. Anti-decongestant sprays and over the counter medication are typically used for short term treatment of nasal congestion, while antibiotics can be prescribed to treat nasal infections.

Sinusitis

Sinus disease or sinusitis may also cause nasal obstruction. Sinusitis patients might also have polyposis or nasal polyps, which are little waterbag-like growths that obstruct the nose and sinuses because of inflammation. This obstruction then leads to nasal congestion. Patients with sinusitis may also experience facial pain, headaches, drainage from the nose, and a lack of sense of smell. For patients with sinusitis who have not responded to medical therapy, we may suggest Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery.