Nasal Obstruction in San Francisco, CA

There are a variety of causes that can lead to a blockage within the nasal passages. While some of these causes may resolve on their own over time, others will require professional treatment in order to remove the obstruction. If the obstruction is not removed, patients can suffer from frustrating and irritating symptoms as they are forced to breathe through their mouth since airflow is restricted through the nose.

The sinus surgeons at California Sinus Centers specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of nasal obstruction and can determine the cause of your obstruction and the treatment available. If you are experiencing symptoms relating to a nasal obstruction, schedule a consultation at at our ENT clinic in San Francisco, Palo Alto, and San Jose. With our provider’s education and expertise, patients travel throughout the San Francisco area to receive care. 

Common Causes of a Nasal Obstruction

Standard colds and flus are likely to block the airways temporarily as they fill up with excess mucus. Infections of the nasal passages can also lead to swelling and difficulty breathing, but should clear up quickly after being treated with antibiotics.

If nasal cavities remain blocked for an extended period of time without the presence of additional cold or flu symptoms, it is likely that a more complex medical condition is to blame.

Nasal Polyps

Nasal polyps are benign masses of tissue that grow within the lining of the nose. When these growths become large enough, they begin to protrude into the nasal passageway and can restrict airflow through this area.

Inferior Turbinate Hypertrophy

Although the name of this condition may sound incredibly intimidating and complex, it is really nothing more than bony structures that exist within the nose. These structures are called turbinates, and they are often quite sensitive to allergens or irritations that enter the nasal cavity. When irritated, the turbinates usually swell, which often makes breathing through the nose very difficult.

Deviated Septum

Another important structure within the nose is the septum, which is the piece of flexible cartilage that separates the two nostrils. If the septum is not in its proper place, it can cause an obstruction to one or both of the nasal passages.

Large Adenoids

The adenoids exist behind the nasal cavity, and may become enlarged due to an infection within the body. No matter what the cause, if the adenoids become large enough, they will begin to close off the airway between the nasal cavity and the throat, making breathing nearly impossible unless it is done through the mouth.

Presence of a Foreign Object

This particular cause is commonly seen in children and young adults who have manually inserted some kind of foreign body into their nose.

Choanal Atresia

Choanal atresia is a congenital condition, meaning that it is present at the time the person is born. This condition involves a narrowed or blocked nasal airway that is caused by excess tissue in the nasal cavity.

Treatment for Nasal Obstructions

If a patient’s nasal obstruction cannot be resolved using prescribed medications, the next option is to consider simple surgical procedures to remove the blockage. California Sinus Center utilizes a number of refined techniques to ensure that these surgeries are performed quickly, and will require minimal recovery.