Breathing through your nose is something you might take for granted, until something gets in the way. Nasal airflow problems can cause difficulty sleeping, trouble breathing during exercise, snoring, changes to your sense of smell, mouth breathing and pain or pressure in your face.
The culprit is generally structural. A deviated septum is common, but problems can occur from the tip of your nose to your voice box.
The first line of treatment is medical therapy with topical steroids, topical antihistamines, or nasal saline irrigation. These are typically tried for six weeks.
If you’re still having problems, an evaluation of the nose by an Ear, Nose and Throat specialist is the next step.
The good news is there are newer noninvasive treatments and a variety of surgical solutions.
The first, is a non-invasive procedure that uses radiofrequency energy to reshape the nasal passages and improve airflow. This quick procedure can be done in the office and requires no incisions. The results are dramatic, with most patients experiencing significant improvement and long-lasting relief.
Secondly, a surgical option for patients whose nasal valve – the narrowest part of the nasal airway - weakens and collapses inward. To correct it, we place a small plastic implant in the nasal wall. The 15-20 minute procedure requires no sutures and there is minimal recovery.
Turbinate reduction is a surgical procedure that involves removing excess tissue from the turbinates, the bones that help clean, humidify and warm the air you breathe. This can be done in the office or the operating room, depending on the severity and the patient’s comfort level.
One of the most common surgical procedures is a septoplasty to correct a deviated septum. This occurs when the septum is not straight and blocks your nasal airway.
This surgical procedure involves removing, repositioning or straightening the cartilage and bone while under local or general anesthesia, depending on the severity of the problem.
Recovery for procedures done under local anesthesia is generally one to two days, and three to five days for procedures done in the operating room.
The most extensive surgery is a functional rhinoplasty, or a nose job that’s done for medical reasons. This can be performed by Ear, Nose and Throat specialists with secondary specialized training in facial plastics.
While the recovery can take one to two weeks, it’s worth it if you need it because the results can dramatically improve airflow through your nose.
If you’ve been putting up with blocked nasal airways, don’t wait for relief. Treatment options and procedures have advanced over recent years and can be quite effective.
To find the treatment that’s right for you, call (402) 758-5600 or go to CHIhealth.com/ENT.
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