Complications of nasal breathing or "nasal congestion" in respiratory diseases are a well-known condition characterized by nasal discharge, headache, insomnia, and disturbances in the function of certain organs and systems.

Indeed, as far back as the 19th century, scientists noted that prolonged nasal congestion could contribute to angina attacks and the development of hypertension. In addition, oxidative processes in tissues are disrupted. It has been observed that in patients with chronic rhinitis, the amount of free hydrochloric acid decreases, and the activity of gastric juice decreases. It is also relevant to note the impact of complicated nasal breathing on the reproductive sphere, which can be associated with a decrease in libido, premature labor, and weak labor activity. Reflex nerve impulses from the nasal mucosa with each inhalation and exhalation stimulate the tone of the respiratory center in the brain and normalize the electrical activity in various parts of the central nervous system, contributing to the further functioning of the body's systems.

Anatomy and Physiology Overview

The nose and surrounding sinuses contribute to air purification and warming, as well as the passage of air into the lower respiratory tract. The nasal cavity has a complex structure. The nasal septum divides the nasal cavity into two halves. On the lateral walls are formations called nasal conchae. Their presence increases the overall area of the nasal cavity, aiding in better warming and moistening of the air.

What are the main causes of nasal congestion?

At first glance, the causes are seemingly basic changes in the nasal cavity that individuals may discuss with an ear, nose, and throat specialist, such as a deviated septum, chronic hypertrophic rhinitis, vasomotor rhinitis, and polyps. And this is only a small part of nasal pathologies.

Is surgery necessary?

Changes in normal nasal breathing lead to hypertrophy (enlargement) of the nasal conchae and, in the future, to the prolonged use of vasoconstrictor drops (naphazoline, galazolin, etc.), causing medicamentous rhinitis and also contribute to the inflammation of the mucous membrane of the paranasal sinuses (sinusitis) and even the middle ear (otitis media). Sometimes, a patient says they've known about their deviated nasal septum all their life, but difficulty breathing through the nose has only become a problem in recent years. One should not wait for such a situation because helping a patient who has accumulated a sufficient "bouquet" of accompanying illnesses and complications is much more challenging.

Thus, a patient with a deviated nasal septum, for example, requires corrective surgery, while those with polyps need their removal, and so on. These surgeries, in addition to restoring nasal breathing, also serve a prophylactic purpose as they prevent the development of inflammation in both the paranasal sinuses and the ears.

Materials sourced from: lorsav.ru