Why Can’t I Breathe Through My Nose?
- mrtimbiggs4
- Nov 14
- 2 min read
If you constantly struggle to breathe through your nose, you’re not alone. Nasal blockage affects millions of people in the UK and while sprays or tablets can help some, others have a structural problem that can only be fixed surgically.
As a Consultant ENT and Rhinology Surgeon in Portsmouth and Fareham, I often see patients who have “tried everything” without relief. Understanding why your nose feels blocked is the first step toward breathing freely again.
Common Causes of Nasal Obstruction
1️⃣ Deviated Septum - The septum is the thin wall dividing your nasal passages. If it’s bent or twisted, often after injury or simply from growth, it can block one or both sides of the nose. This is one of the most common causes of long-term nasal obstruction.
2️⃣ Nasal Valve Collapse - The nasal valve is the narrowest part of the nasal airway. Weakness or collapse here can make breathing difficult, especially when inhaling deeply or during exercise. Many patients describe it as their “nose collapsing inwards” when they breathe.
3️⃣ Swollen Turbinates or Allergy - Inside the nose are soft 'fins' called turbinates, which can become inflamed by allergies or sinus issues. Medical treatment, such as steroid sprays or antihistamines, often helps here, but not when the problem is structural.
4️⃣ Post-Traumatic Deformity - A broken or injured nose can heal out of shape, narrowing the nasal passages and altering airflow.
When Medical Treatment Isn’t Enough
If you’ve used nasal sprays, antihistamines, or steroid drops for months without improvement, your blockage is likely structural. That means medication won’t correct it but surgery potentially can.
Functional Septorhinoplasty – Restoring Structure and Airflow
For patients with structural nasal obstruction, the most effective operation is a functional septorhinoplasty.
This procedure:
Straightens the septum
Strengthens or widens the nasal valves
Corrects external deviation or collapse
Restores natural breathing
I perform this surgery using Piezo ultrasonic technology and dorsal preservation methods at Adnova Clinic, Fareham, serving patients from Portsmouth, Southampton, Winchester, and across Hampshire.
Unlike traditional “bone-breaking” rhinoplasty, Piezo uses sound waves to sculpt bone precisely, reducing bruising and swelling. Most patients breathe through their nose immediately after surgery, with no packing and no claustrophobic feeling.
Life After Surgery
Breathing improvement is often noticeable within seconds of waking. The splint comes off after one week, and swelling continues to settle for several months. Most importantly, patients report sleeping better, exercising more easily, and feeling dramatically less congested.
Summary
If your nose is constantly blocked and sprays don’t help, there may be a structural cause such as septal deviation or nasal valve collapse. Modern functional septorhinoplasty can restore natural airflow safely and predictably.
Consultations are available at Adnova Clinic, Fareham with Mr Tim Biggs, Consultant ENT & Rhinology Surgeon.
To enquire or book an assessment:
📍 Adnova Clinic
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