What causes nasal breathing difficulties?

Under normal circumstances, nasal breathing difficulties may be caused by the common cold, allergic rhinitis, sinusitis, turbinate hypertrophy, or nasal polyps. If any discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Common cold: The common cold is a respiratory illness caused by viral infection, with nasal congestion being one of its main symptoms. The virus infects the nasal mucosa, causing congestion, swelling, and increased mucus secretion, thereby obstructing airflow through the nasal passages. Treatment may include antiviral oral solutions, Ganmao Ling granules, Lianhua Qingwen capsules, or similar medications as advised by a physician.

2. Allergic rhinitis: Allergic rhinitis is an abnormal immune response in which the body overreacts to substances that are typically harmless. Typical symptoms include nasal congestion, runny nose, and sneezing, all of which contribute to a sensation of impaired nasal breathing. Treatment under medical guidance may involve cetirizine hydrochloride tablets, ephedrine-diphenhydramine tablets, or fexofenadine hydrochloride tablets.

3. Sinusitis: Sinusitis refers to infection or inflammation of the sinuses within the nasal cavity. Common symptoms include nasal congestion, nasal discharge, and headaches. Inflammation causes swelling of the nasal mucosa, blocking the airway and leading to breathing difficulties. Treatment under medical supervision may include roxithromycin tablets, clindamycin hydrochloride tablets, or cephalexin dry suspension.

4. Turbinate hypertrophy: The turbinates are soft tissues located inside the nasal cavity. When they become enlarged or congested, they can obstruct airflow, resulting in breathing difficulties. Common causes include allergies and chronic rhinitis. Medical treatment may involve cryotherapy using liquid nitrogen to freeze and reduce the size of the turbinate tissue.

5. Nasal polyps: Nasal polyps are tumor-like soft tissue growths protruding within the nasal cavity, usually caused by chronic sinusitis. Their presence can block the nasal airway, leading to breathing difficulties. Medical intervention involving endoscopic sinus surgery is typically required to remove the polyps.

In daily life, it is important to maintain hand hygiene and avoid picking or rubbing the nose to prevent introducing bacteria into the nasal cavity and worsening symptoms.