Going through life with nasal obstruction can have a serious impact on your happiness and overall comfort.
Experiencing nasal obstruction can make it difficult to breathe and or even focus on the world around you. Prolonged sinus and nasal issues can lead to even more problems if not treated properly.
Instead of letting nasal pressure hold you back, speak with a medical professional and St. Louis Sinus Center. Dr. James Gould is a top expert in nasal obstruction and offers many solutions to help you breathe normally again.
What Is Nasal Obstruction?
Around 1 in 20 million Americans suffer from nasal obstruction. The term “nasal obstruction” refers to anything that restricts airflow in and out of the nose, affecting one or both nasal passages. It is usually caused by either swelling of the nasal tissue or an anatomical blockage, which results in a narrowing of the nasal cavity and the feeling of the passages being congested.

Nasal Obstruction Symptoms
There are many symptoms of nasal obstruction, including:
- Nasal congestion or stuffiness
- Trouble breathing through your nose
- Trouble sleeping
- Unable to breathe well during exercise or exertion
- Headaches
- Runny nose
- Postnasal drip (drainage down the back of your throat)
- Facial pain or pressure
Anatomical factors may also restrict airflow. Examples include:
- Enlarged adenoids (back of the nasal passage)
- Nasal tumors (benign or cancerous)

- Deviated nasal septum (crooked nasal cartilage)

- Enlarged turbinates (bony structures within the nasal cavity)

- Nasal valve collapse or NVC (weak nasal cartilage, which collapses inward when a person inhales)

- Polyps (benign growths within the nasal and sinus cavity)
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Are There Medical Conditions That Could Cause Nasal Obstruction?
Several medical conditions may cause nasal congestion, including:
- Allergic rhinitis (Allergies, such as hay fever)
- Non-allergic rhinitis (also known as vasomotor rhinitis)
- Sinusitis (sinus infections)
- Environmental irritants (smoke or dust)
- Cold or flu
- Certain medications (such as high blood pressure medications)
Nasal Obstruction Treatment At The St. Louis Sinus Center
Nasal obstruction is a nuisance, to say the least. It may limit or prevent physical activity, make sleeping difficult, or even cause issues like snoring or obstructive sleep disorders (OSA), all of which greatly impact your quality of life.

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FAQs
Can Nasal Obstruction Affect My Sense of Smell and Taste?
Yes, nasal obstruction can have a significant effect on your sense of smell and taste.
Blocked nasal passages restrict airflow to the olfactory receptors. These receptors are responsible for detecting smells, which are linked to the ability to perceive taste.
Without proper airflow, your sense of smell diminishes (a condition known as anosmia). This can also reduce your perception of flavors. If nasal obstruction persists, you must address the underlying cause to restore your senses and improve your quality of life.
How Does Nasal Obstruction Affect Children vs. Adults?
Nasal obstruction has a different effect on children compared to adults. Here are some key distinctions:
- Breathing Patterns: Children are more likely to become chronic mouth breathers due to nasal obstruction. This can interfere with proper facial and dental development.
- Sleep Quality: Nasal obstruction in children often leads to breathing issues like snoring or sleep apnea. This can cause poor sleep quality and daytime fatigue, which may impact their mood, attention span, and school performance.
- Speech Development: Persistent nasal blockage can influence speech patterns. This can lead to nasal-sounding speech or delayed speech development.
- Ear Health: In children, nasal obstruction can contribute to frequent ear infections. This is due to the proximity of their eustachian tubes to the nasal passages and their immature immune systems.
- Behavioral and Cognitive Effects: Chronic nasal obstruction can result in behavioral issues like irritability, hyperactivity, and difficulty concentrating. This is due to reduced oxygenation and poor sleep.
- Immune Function: Children are more prone to infections, and nasal obstruction can trap mucus and pathogens. This increases the likelihood of sinus or respiratory illnesses.
Can Nasal Obstruction Lead To Ear Problems?
Yes, nasal obstruction can lead to ear problems. This has to do with its impact on the eustachian tubes.
The eustachian tubes link the middle ear to the back of the nasal cavity. They help regulate air pressure and drain fluid from the middle ear.
Nasal passage obstructions can cause several challenges, including:
- Eustachian Tube Dysfunction: Swelling or blockage in the nasal passages can prevent the eustachian tubes from opening. This causes a sensation of fullness, pressure, or muffled hearing.
- Middle Ear Infections (Otitis Media): Fluid trapped in the middle ear because of eustachian tube dysfunction can create an environment for bacterial or viral infections. This can lead to ear pain and hearing difficulties.
- Hearing Loss: Chronic obstruction and fluid buildup can affect hearing clarity.
- Tinnitus (Ringing in the Ears): Pressure changes in the middle ear caused by nasal blockage can sometimes lead to ringing or buzzing sensations in the ears.
- Balance Issues: The middle ear also plays a role in balance. Chronic nasal obstruction might contribute to feelings of dizziness or unsteadiness.
Why Choose St. Louis Sinus Center?
The St. Louis Sinus Center was founded in 2011 by James D. Gould, MD. The practice offers top-notch treatment for nasal obstructions and a range of other sinus conditions.
With over 20 years of ENT experience, Dr. Gould, a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, is an internationally recognized expert dedicated to providing the Midwest with state-of-the-art sinus care. Patients benefit from his expertise, attention to detail, and innovative therapies.
Schedule A Consultation
The St. Louis Sinus Center specializes in various treatments related to nasal obstruction. We can provide a thorough diagnosis and customized care plan so you can get back to enjoying life.
Don’t wait to get the nasal obstruction relief you deserve! Please call 314-450-7720 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a consultation with our experienced team at our offices in St. Louis or Festus, MO.