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What is nasal obstruction?
Nasal obstruction is when the nasal passages are blocked, or there is difficulty breathing from the nose. This may be from rhinorrhea (runny nose), or it can be from other sources.
What causes it?
The nasal cavity can be blocked by several causes including:
Why is it a concern?
Often, nasal obstruction from mucus, or a runny nose, is self-limited and goes away on its own. When it persists, nasal obstruction can be the symptom of other causes such as those listed above and is something that needs to be managed.
How do we evaluate it?
When nasal obstruction is due to allergic rhinitis, your child may be asked to see an allergist by your primary doctor. Your child may also be asked to see an Ear, Nose and Throat specialist (Otolaryngologist). The specialist will get a complete history and examine the front of the nose, and just along the inside. A speculum may be used for a better view of the nose, and in some cases, a flexible fiberoptic camera may be used to evaluate the entire nasal cavity to the very back of the nose (nasopharynx). This can be done in clinic without the need for general anesthesia.
How is it treated?
Once the source of the obstruction is found, treatment can include watchful waiting, washing the nose with nasal rinses, medications taken by mouth or sprayed into the nose, or surgery.
What are the long-term effects?
Depending on the source of nasal obstruction, the long-term effects can vary. Newborn infants must breath from the nose to coordinate breathing with nursing and feeding. Nasal irritation and nasal obstruction can impact a child’s quality of life if it is longstanding. An obstructed nasal passageway can affect sleep quality. Breathing from the nose is also important for facial development in childhood. Rarely, acute infections of the sinuses can lead to more serious infections if left untreated. Nasal obstruction and rhinorrhea (runny nose) may impact the health of the ears and can affect hearing as the drainage pathway for the middle ear is through the back of the nose (nasopharynx).
Learn more about Pediatric Otolaryngology or call us at (650) 724-4800 for more information.
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