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Nasal Dysfunctions
Nasal congestion refers to the blockage of the nasal
passages. In response to various threats the internal
nasal tissues swell due to dilated blood vessels, the
mucous thickens and the ciliary movement on the mucous
membrane decreases lowering in turn the efficiency of
cleaning mechanism of the nasal mucosa. As a result,
respiration through the nose is obstructed and may
eventually lead to attenuation of its protective function
and the appearance of infection. Moreover, nasal
obstruction can interfere with the ears, decreases the
sense of smell and taste, alters the sound of the voice
and makes sleep uneasy (snoring). The latter can be
associated with sleep apnea. Nasal congestion can also
cause mild facial and head pain, and a degree of
discomfort.
Consequent breathing through the mouth results in
inhalation of dry, cold and non-filtered air which is
aggressive for the lower respiratory tract (pharynx,
trachea, lungs). Absence of air passage through the nose
also affects ventilation of the paranasal sinuses and the
middle ear.
The newborn infant can only breathe through the nose
(newborns are "obligate nose breathers"). Nasal congestion
in an infant in the first few months of life can interfere
with breastfeeding and cause life-threatening respiratory
distress.
Nasal Congestion can be caused by:
• the common cold (influenza)
• allergies (allergic rhinitis)
• non-allergic rhinitis
• sinus infection (Sinusitis)
• reaction to medication (rebound syndrome)
• in situations where there is increased blood flow (e.g.
in an altered body position)
• hormonal (hypothyroidism, diabetes, pregnancy)
• gastric reflux
• nasal polyps
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