Nose & Sinus Conditions in Adults
Nose and sinus conditions in adults, such as nasal blockage, chronic sinus congestion, and frequent nosebleeds, are common issues that can significantly impact breathing, sleep quality, and overall daily comfort.
Fortunately, these conditions are often highly treatable, and seeking early assessment can greatly enhance your quality of life.
Understanding nasal and sinus function
The nose and sinuses play essential roles in breathing, filtering air, humidifying it, and clearing mucus.
Inside the nose, the septum divides the nasal passages, and structures called turbinates help warm and humidify air.
Sinuses are air-filled spaces behind your cheeks, forehead, and between your eyes, which produce mucus to trap dust and germs.
When anatomical or inflammatory problems disrupt these natural processes, symptoms such as congestion, discomfort, and infections can occur.
Common nose and sinus conditions
Deviated septum
A deviated nasal septum occurs when the internal wall dividing the nasal passages is significantly bent or displaced, often due to injury or congenital factors.
This can cause blocked nasal airflow, snoring, a dry mouth from mouth breathing, and poor quality sleep.
A deviated septum can also lead to recurrent sinus infections and chronic nasal congestion.
Enlarged turbinates
Inferior turbinates are bony structures covered by soft tissue inside your nose, essential for warming and humidifying the air you breathe.
Chronic swelling, often due to allergies or persistent inflammation, can cause turbinate hypertrophy, significantly obstructing nasal passages and causing persistent congestion and difficulty breathing.
Chronic sinusitis
Sinusitis is inflammation of the sinus lining.
Acute sinusitis often resolves quickly, but chronic sinusitis persists for more than 12 weeks, causing ongoing symptoms such as facial pressure, nasal discharge, reduced sense of smell, and post-nasal drip.
Factors like nasal polyps, anatomical narrowing, or persistent inflammation can worsen this condition.
Structural obstruction or nasal valve collapse
In some cases, external nasal structures or nasal valve areas collapse or become weakened, significantly obstructing airflow.
These structural issues may result from trauma or anatomical variations and can severely impact breathing.
Complex cases may require structural support through specialised surgery.
When to seek ENT assessment
Signs you shouldn’t ignore
Consider seeking specialist ENT assessment if you experience:
- Persistent nasal obstruction or congestion
- Frequent sinus infections
- Continuous mouth breathing or poor sleep quality
- Persistent nasal discharge or nosebleeds
- Difficulty using CPAP equipment due to nasal blockage
Importance of early intervention
Early assessment and treatment by an ENT specialist can substantially improve your comfort, reduce the risk of recurring infections, and support long-term sinus health.
Untreated conditions like septal deviations or enlarged turbinates can worsen over time, potentially leading to complications that become harder to manage effectively.
Supporting your nasal health long-term
You can support long-term nasal and sinus health by:
- Avoiding nasal trauma and excessive nose-blowing
- Regularly using saline nasal rinses as directed
- Managing allergies proactively
- Avoiding smoking, which impairs nasal healing and mucus drainage
Surgical procedures offered by Dr Phillips
Book a consultation
If you’re experiencing chronic nasal blockage, congestion, or sinus pressure, Dr Phillips can provide a thorough assessment and discuss treatment options tailored to your needs.
