Symptoms of Nasal Valve Collapse
The nasal valve is a narrow passageway within your nostrils that is responsible for regulating airflow as it enters and exits your nose. When the valve weakens or collapses, it can lead to various symptoms, such as congestion, difficulty breathing, snoring, and reduced exercise tolerance.
You may frequently feel congested even when you don’t have a cold or allergies. Breathing through your nose becomes difficult, and you may resort to mouth breathing. Nasal valve collapse can contribute to snoring, causing disruptions in your sleep. Physical activity might also become more challenging due to restricted airflow.
Treatment Options
There are several treatment options available to alleviate the symptoms of nasal valve collapse and help you breathe easily once again.
Non-Surgical Methods
Over-the-counter adhesive strips can be applied to the outside of your nose to help open up the nasal passages temporarily. Also, nasal dilators can be used, which are small, soft devices that you insert into your nostrils to keep them open during sleep.
Surgical Methods
The surgery corrects a deviated septum, which can contribute to nasal valve collapse. In some cases, a rhinoplasty can be performed to reshape the nasal structure and improve airflow. Nasal valve stents are a minimally invasive procedure. They are small, flexible devices that can be placed inside the nasal passages to help keep them open. And in more severe cases, cartilage grating might be necessary to reinforce the nasal valve structure.
Book an Appointment
Don’t let nasal valve collapse stand in the way of your ability to breathe comfortably. With various treatment options available, you can find relief from congestion, difficulty breathing, and other related symptoms. Contact St. Louis Sinus Center, located in St. Louis, MO, to discuss your nasal valve treatment options. Call 314-450-7720 to schedule your appointment today.
