Nasal Obstruction and How We Can Help
Nasal obstruction is one of the most common reasons people seek help from an ENT specialist. If you constantly feel blocked, breathe poorly through your nose, or rely on mouth breathing at night, you’re not alone—and there are effective solutions available.
At Hampshire ENT Clinics, our team of expert surgeons specialise in diagnosing and treating nasal obstruction with a personalised approach, from simple medical treatments to advanced surgical solutions.
Why does nasal obstruction happen?
There are several possible causes, often acting together:
Deviated nasal septum – the cartilage and bone that separate the two nostrils may be bent or displaced, narrowing one or both passages.
Enlarged turbinates – the normal structures inside the nose that humidify and filter air can become swollen, often due to allergies or chronic inflammation.
Nasal valve weakness or collapse – the narrowest part of the nasal airway can weaken, particularly after trauma or previous surgery.
Other factors – such as nasal polyps, sinus disease, or even the natural shape of your nose.
Treatment options
Septoplasty
If a deviated septum is the main culprit, a septoplasty can straighten the partition inside the nose. This operation is done through the nostrils (no external scars) and can dramatically improve airflow.
Turbinoplasty
When enlarged turbinates are blocking the airway, a turbinoplasty can reduce their size while preserving their important function. This is often done at the same time as septoplasty.
Septorhinoplasty
In some cases, the external structure of the nose also contributes to obstruction. A septorhinoplasty addresses both the function and the appearance of the nose. This is a more advanced procedure that not only improves breathing but can also refine the shape of the nose if needed.
Why choose Hampshire ENT Clinics?
Our team brings together leading ENT consultants with extensive experience in rhinology (nose and sinus surgery) and facial plastics. We provide:
Comprehensive assessment – with nasal endoscopy and imaging when needed.
Tailored treatment plans – from medical therapies to surgery.
Expert surgical techniques – including minimally invasive approaches, piezo-assisted rhinoplasty, and modern septorhinoplasty methods.
Holistic care – ensuring that both function and aesthetics are considered when treating nasal obstruction.
We understand how much nasal blockage can affect your quality of life—whether it’s struggling to exercise, poor sleep, or simply never feeling that you can take a clear breath.
Take the first step
If you’re living with persistent nasal obstruction, you don’t have to just put up with it. The team at Hampshire ENT Clinics is here to help you breathe easier.
📞 Contact us today to book your consultation and explore the best treatment options for you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Nasal Obstruction
What is nasal obstruction?
Nasal obstruction refers to difficulty breathing through the nose due to narrowing or blockage of the nasal airway. This may be constant or intermittent and can affect one or both sides of the nose.
What are the most common causes of nasal obstruction?
The most frequent causes include:
A deviated nasal septum
Enlarged (hypertrophied) turbinates
Nasal valve weakness or collapse
Nasal polyps or chronic sinus disease
Often, more than one factor is present at the same time.
How do I know if my septum is deviated?
A deviated septum can cause persistent blockage, often worse on one side, difficulty exercising through the nose, mouth breathing at night, or snoring. Diagnosis requires examination by an ENT specialist, usually with nasal endoscopy.
What are turbinates and why do they cause blockage?
Turbinates are normal structures inside the nose that warm and humidify air. When they become chronically swollen—due to allergies or inflammation—they can significantly reduce airflow.
What is nasal valve collapse?
The nasal valve is the narrowest part of the nasal airway. Weakness or collapse in this area can cause airflow limitation, particularly on deep inspiration. It may occur naturally, after trauma, or following previous nasal surgery.
Will nasal sprays fix nasal obstruction?
Sprays can help when inflammation or allergy is the main problem. However, they cannot correct structural issues such as a deviated septum or valve collapse. Long-term reliance on decongestant sprays can actually worsen symptoms.
When is septoplasty recommended?
Septoplasty is advised when a deviated septum is the main cause of nasal blockage and symptoms persist despite appropriate medical treatment.
What is turbinoplasty and is it safe?
Turbinoplasty reduces the size of enlarged turbinates while preserving their function. Modern techniques are safe, effective, and designed to avoid dryness or long-term nasal problems.
What is septorhinoplasty and how is it different?
Septorhinoplasty addresses both internal nasal obstruction and the external shape of the nose. It is recommended when breathing problems are linked to the overall nasal framework or nasal valve support.
Will surgery change how my nose looks?
Septoplasty and turbinoplasty are performed internally and do not change appearance. Septorhinoplasty may alter the shape of the nose, but only when this is necessary for function or discussed and agreed in advance.
Is nasal obstruction surgery a day-case?
In most cases, yes. Septoplasty, turbinoplasty, and many septorhinoplasty procedures are performed as day-case operations under general anaesthetic.
How long does recovery take?
Initial congestion usually settles over 1–2 weeks. Breathing continues to improve over several weeks as swelling reduces. Full healing varies depending on the procedure performed.
How is nasal obstruction assessed?
Assessment includes a detailed history, examination, and often nasal endoscopy. Imaging such as CT scans is used when sinus disease or complex anatomy is suspected.
Where can I be assessed and treated?
Assessment and treatment are available at Hampshire ENT Clinics, with consultant-led care across Hampshire, including Portsmouth, Winchester, Salisbury, and surrounding areas.