The impact of good nasal breathing on quality of life

The nose serves as a natural filter, humidifier, and temperature regulator for the air we breathe. When nasal breathing is impaired, it can significantly affect quality of life and contribute to broader health concerns.

This article explains the importance of good nasal breathing, common ENT issues that can affect it, and treatments available for improvement.

What is the importance of good nasal breathing?

Breathing through the nose filters out dust, allergens, and pathogens using the tiny hair-like structures (called cilia) and mucous membranes inside the nasal passages. This keeps the airways clear and helps prevent respiratory infections.

When air passages through the nose, it’s also warmed and humidified, reducing the risk of irritation in the throat and lungs. Furthermore, the nose produces nitric oxide, a molecule that helps dilate blood vessels, improving oxygen absorption in the lungs and circulation throughout the body.

Lastly, nasal breathing helps maintain steady airflow during sleep, reducing the risk of snoring and obstructive sleep apnoea. Poor nasal breathing can lead to mouth breathing, which can result in dry mouth, fragmented sleep, and bad breath.

What are common ENT problems that can impact nasal breathing?

Several ENT conditions can interfere with proper nasal breathing. Some of the most common include:

• Deviated nasal septum: A misaligned septum can obstruct airflow, leading to difficulty breathing through one or both nostrils.
• Nasal polyps: These benign growths in the nasal passages or sinuses can cause chronic congestion, reduced sense of smell, and nasal obstruction.
• Chronic sinusitis: Persistent inflammation of the sinuses can cause facial pain, pressure, nasal congestion, and frequent infections.
• Allergies: Allergic cause inflammation and swelling in the nasal passages, making it difficult to breath through the nose.

It’s essential to consult an ENT specialist if nasal breathing difficulties persist for more than a few weeks or significantly impact daily life. Symptoms such as chronic nasal congestion, frequent sinus infection, or interrupted sleep warrant medical evaluation.

What treatments are available to improve nasal breathing?

The approach to improving nasal breathing depends on the underlying cause. Treatments can range from simple lifestyle changes to surgical interventions.

Medical treatments

For temporary issues like nasal congestion caused by a cold or allergies, over-the-counter saline sprays, antihistamines, or decongestants can provide relief. Nasal sprays containing corticosteroids are often prescribed for conditions such as allergic rhinitis to reduce inflammation and swelling.

Surgical interventions

For structural issues like a deviated septum or nasal polyps, surgery may be necessary. Common procedures include:

• Septoplasty: For a deviated septum, septoplasty straightens the nasal septum, improving airflow.
• Endoscopic sinus surgery: For nasal polyps or chronic sinusitis, endoscopic sinus surgery removes obstructions and restores normal breathing.

Can improved nasal breathing reduce the risk of other health conditions?

Restoring proper airflow can reduce the risk of recurrent respiratory infections by ensuring that inhaled air is properly filtered. This is especially important during cold and flu season or in environments with high levels of allergens or pollutants.

Additionally, good nasal breathing can reduce the strain on the cardiovascular system. Conditions like sleep apnoea can contribute to high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke if left untreated. Improved nasal breathing can alleviate symptoms and help mitigate these risks.

For children, correcting nasal breathing issues is particularly important, as chronic mouth breathing during development can lead to changes in facial structure, misaligned teeth, and even speech issues. Early intervention to correct nasal breathing problems can prevent these complications.

If you’re experiencing persistent nasal breathing difficulties, seek medical advice to explore the options best suited to your needs.