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Nasal obstruction can arise from a variety of causes, ranging from structural abnormalities to inflammatory conditions. Here are the primary types of nasal obstruction:

• Structural Causes:
  • Deviated Nasal Septum:
    • A common condition where the nasal septum, the wall between the nostrils, is displaced to one side, leading to reduced airflow.
  • Nasal Polyps:
    • Soft, painless, noncancerous growths on the lining of the nasal passages or sinuses due to chronic inflammation.
  • Turbinate Hypertrophy:
    • Enlarged turbinates, which are structures inside the nose that humidify and filter the air. Hypertrophy can block airflow.
  • Nasal Valve Collapse:
    • Weakness or narrowing of the nasal valve, which can be due to trauma, surgery, or congenital issues.
  • Congenital Abnormalities:
    • Includes choanal atresia (blockage of the nasal passage by tissue) and other structural malformations present at birth.
• Inflammatory and Infectious Causes:
  • Allergic Rhinitis:
    • Inflammation of the nasal passages due to an allergic reaction, causing swelling and congestion.
  • Non-allergic Rhinitis:
    • Similar to allergic rhinitis but not caused by allergens. Triggers include smoke, odors, or weather changes.
  • Sinusitis:
    • Inflammation or infection of the sinuses, leading to blocked nasal passages and congestion.
  • Chronic Rhinosinusitis:
    • Long-term inflammation of the sinuses, often accompanied by nasal polyps.
• Neoplastic Causes:
  • Benign Tumors:
    • Noncancerous growths such as inverted papillomas can obstruct nasal passages.
  • Malignant Tumors
    • Cancerous growths in the nasal cavity or sinuses, though less common, can cause obstruction.
• Traumatic Causes:
  • Nasal Fractures:
    • Broken nose can lead to swelling, misalignment, and obstruction.
  • Post-surgical Changes:
    • Previous nasal surgeries can result in scar tissue or changes in nasal structure that cause obstruction.
• Miscellaneous Causes:
  • Foreign Bodies:
    • Particularly in children, objects placed in the nose can cause sudden obstruction.
  • Hormonal Changes:
    • Pregnancy or hormonal fluctuations can lead to increased nasal congestion.
  • Medications:
    • Certain drugs, such as nasal decongestant sprays, can cause rebound congestion with prolonged use (rhinitis medicamentosa).

Understanding the underlying cause of nasal obstruction is crucial for effective treatment, which can range from medical management to surgical intervention depending on the etiology. For Consultation visit www.apollochinarpark.in/ent