Understanding nasal obstruction
What is nasal obstruction?
Nasal obstruction is a partial or complete blockage of airflow through one or both sides of the nose. It may be constant or come and go. It may affect one side more than the other. Some people have lived with a blocked nose for so long that they no longer recognise it as abnormal.
A persistently blocked nose can affect sleep quality, contribute to snoring, limit exercise and lead to habitual mouth breathing. For some patients, it is also one factor in broader sleep-related breathing concerns.
Common causes
Deviated septum
The septum is the thin wall dividing the two nasal passages. When it is significantly bent or displaced, airflow is restricted on one or both sides. This is one of the most common causes of chronic nasal blockage and can result from injury or natural development.
Nasal valve collapse
The nasal valve is the narrowest part of the nasal airway. If the sidewall is weak, it can collapse inward during breathing, particularly during exercise or deep inhalation. This can occur naturally or as a consequence of previous surgery.
Turbinate hypertrophy
The turbinates are structures inside the nose that warm and humidify air. When they become chronically enlarged they narrow the airway, often contributing to a feeling of constant congestion.
Chronic sinusitis and nasal polyps
Persistent inflammation in the sinuses can cause ongoing congestion, facial pressure and reduced airflow. Nasal polyps are soft growths that can develop within the nasal passages or sinuses, further restricting breathing.
Nasal trauma
A broken or injured nose may heal with internal structural changes that restrict airflow, even if the external appearance looks normal.
Adenoid enlargement
Primarily relevant in children and young adults, enlarged adenoids at the back of the nose can obstruct nasal breathing.
In many cases, more than one factor is involved.
Not every blocked nose requires surgery. Assessment is important because treatment depends entirely on the cause.
When to see a specialist
A specialist assessment is worth considering if:
- nasal blockage has persisted for several months or longer
- sprays and medications have not provided lasting improvement
- your blocked nose is affecting sleep, exercise or daily life
- you have a history of nasal injury or previous nasal surgery
- you experience recurring sinus infections
What happens during a consultation
Dr Jumeau typically begins with a video consultation to discuss your symptoms and history. A face-to-face appointment then allows a detailed examination of the nose, which may include the use of a small endoscope to look inside the nasal passages.
If a CT scan of your nose and sinuses has not been performed within the past 18 to 24 months, imaging may be arranged before or shortly after your consultation.
Surgical options
Surgery is considered when the cause of obstruction is structural or when medical treatment has not provided adequate relief. The specific procedure depends on the diagnosis.
- Septoplasty
Straightens a deviated septum. It is performed entirely through the nostrils with no external incisions. - Turbinate reduction (turbinoplasty)
Reduces chronically enlarged turbinates to open the nasal airway. Often performed alongside septoplasty. - Nasal valve repair
Strengthens or reconstructs the nasal sidewall to prevent collapse during breathing. This may involve cartilage grafts. - Functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS)
Opens the natural drainage pathways of the sinuses to treat chronic sinusitis or remove nasal polyps.
Dr Jumeau will explain what any recommended procedure involves and what to expect during recovery.
Consultation structure
Video consultation
Complete the registration form first, then call to book.
Face-to-face consultation
Often required following the initial video consultation.
Direct face-to-face
Organised at Dr Jumeau's discretion based on registration details.
If you have not had a CT scan of your nose and sinuses within the past 18 to 24 months, imaging may be organised prior to your appointment.