Is it normal to always have one nostril blocked

Your doctor will use a special camera-equipped device called an endoscope to find out what is causing your nasal congestion and other symptoms. While the exact cause of nasal polyps is not yet established, they have been linked to prolonged inflammation of the lining of the nose and sinuses, also known as chronic rhinosinusitis. Rhinosinusitis can be related to many different factors from allergens to upper respiratory tract infections and even secondhand smoke.

In some people, these contaminants trigger an abnormal immune response that leads to excessive swelling of the nasal lining in the form of nasal polyps. There is no evidence that nasal polyps are life-threatening. However, they can be a big inconvenience and can interfere with the normal drainage and ventilation of your sinuses. The mucus produced by the sinuses is meant to wash away irritants and contaminants from the nasal passages.

If nasal polyps get too big, they may block the normal flow of mucus and cause it to build up and become infected, further worsening your sinus issues.

Kim says. If the polyps are related to a sinus disease or an allergy to aspirin or ibuprofen, then they are more likely to occur in adults. On the other hand, nasal polyps associated with cystic fibrosis are more common in children.

Anatomy and Physiology of Nasal Obstruction. Otolaryngologic Clinics of North America. Septal deviation and perforation. Merck Manual Professional Version. Bhattacharyya N. Clinical presentation, diagnosis, and treatment of nasal obstruction. Tsang CLN, et al. Long-term patient-related outcome measures of septoplasty: A systematic review. European Archives of Otorhinolaryngology.

Hwang K, et al. Etiology of nasal bone fractures. The Journal of Craniofacial Surgery. Wang MB. Etiologies of nasal symptoms: An overview. Gandy JR, et al. Credit a physiological response called the nasal cycle, a process where your nostrils take turns sucking in more air, says Rachel Roditi, M. Structures in both sides of your nose called inferior turbinates are responsible for warming and humidifying air before it reaches your lungs, says Dr. This protects your lungs by reducing dryness and irritation.

That process is a lot of work. So your nose funnels its resources more to one side than the other to make the process more efficient. It sends more blood flow to one nostril, which warms the air coming in through there, but also causes the turbinate on that side to swell. But when you are sick, blood flow to your nose increases even more, sparking more swelling and greater mucus production in your nasal region, says Dr.

Still, after about 90 minutes to 4 hours, your nose switches sides. Your best bet is to work on easing the congestion overall. Steam from a hot shower or humidifier can help open the floodgates, says Dr. A deviated septum could keep your sinuses from draining properly. Excess mucus can then become a fertile breeding ground for bacteria. The result tends to be frequent and painful sinus infections. This is another condition typically driving patients to our door.

A deviated septum can lead to sinus infections. Sinus infections often lead to headaches because they tend to inflame and block the sinus cavities. The pressure alone can trigger headaches. However, if you're prone to migraine headaches, the problem gets worse. Your inflamed sinuses can put pressure on blood vessels, triggering a migraine that can be quite difficult to get rid of.

You don't have to suffer from the effects of a deviated septum. Treatment can include antihistamines and decongestants, which can help clear the sinus passages and reduce discomfort. We can also prescribe a nasal steroid spray to reduce swelling. If you have a truly severe case, a form of surgery known as a septoplasty may be indicated. Surgery is a word nobody likes hearing, but it's effective. Some septoplasties may be performed as a quick, non-invasive outpatient procedure right here in our office.

Additionally, enlarged turbinates can be reduced in our office. This process takes just a few minutes but can be very effective in opening the nasal passageways for better airflow. Sometimes septoplasties will need to be performed in a surgery center or hospital, like any other surgery.