Nasal Obstruction FAQs: What You Need to Know

Madeleine Herman
Sep 2
2 min read

Dr. Madeleine Herman, MD, MPH

Nasal obstruction—commonly described as a “stuffy nose” or “blocked nasal passages”—is one of the most frequent reasons patients visit an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist. Whether it’s occasional congestion or a constant struggle to breathe through your nose, nasal obstruction can significantly impact your quality of life.

At SCENT Houston – Sinus Center & ENT Specialists of Houston, our board-certified ENT doctors provide advanced diagnosis and treatments to help patients in Houston breathe easier.

In this article, we’ll answer some of the most common frequently asked questions (FAQs) about nasal obstruction.

What Causes Nasal Obstruction?

Nasal obstruction can stem from a variety of issues, including:

Deviated septum – when the cartilage dividing the nostrils is off-center.
Chronic sinusitis – ongoing inflammation in the sinuses.
Nasal polyps – soft, benign growths inside the nasal passages.
Allergies – triggers like dust, pollen, and pet dander cause swelling.
Enlarged turbinates – structures in the nose that become swollen and block airflow.

An ENT specialist can identify the exact cause with a nasal exam or imaging studies.

How Do I Know If I Have a Deviated Septum?

A deviated septum is one of the most common causes of nasal obstruction. Signs include:

Constant congestion on one side of the nose
Frequent sinus infections
Snoring or mouth breathingIf symptoms are severe, your ENT may recommend septoplasty surgery to straighten the septum.

Can Allergies Cause Chronic Nasal Blockage?

Yes. Allergies are one of the top causes of nasal obstruction in both children and adults. Seasonal or year-round allergies can cause swollen nasal tissues, mucus buildup, and difficulty breathing. Treatments may include prescription sprays, antihistamines, or allergy testing and immunotherapy at our Houston ENT clinic.

When Should I See an ENT for Nasal Obstruction?

Schedule an appointment if:

Congestion lasts more than 10 days without improvement
You experience repeated sinus infections
Breathing problems interfere with sleep or daily life
Over-the-counter medications don’t provide relief

What Treatments Are Available?

Treatment depends on the cause of your nasal obstruction:

Medications – nasal sprays, antihistamines, decongestants
In-office procedures – turbinate reduction, balloon sinuplasty
Surgery – septoplasty or sinus surgery when structural problems are the cause

At SCENT Houston, we offer personalized treatment plans using the latest ENT technology to get lasting results.

Can Nasal Obstruction Affect My Sleep?

Absolutely. Blocked nasal passages can contribute to snoring and sleep apnea, conditions that affect your rest and overall health. Treating nasal obstruction often improves sleep quality and reduces daytime fatigue.

Final Thoughts

Nasal obstruction can have many different causes, but the good news is that most patients find significant relief with the right treatment. Whether you’re struggling with allergies, sinus infections, or structural issues like a deviated septum, our ENT specialists at SCENT Houston are here to help.

👉 Schedule an appointment today and start breathing better tomorrow.