The sensation of nasal passages collapsing can be a source of significant discomfort, leading to difficulties with breathing. While many people search for “sinus collapse,” this term is not typically used in the medical community. The condition is more accurately known as nasal valve collapse or other forms of nasal airway obstruction, which impacts the ability to breathe freely through the nose.
Clarifying “Sinus Collapse” and Nasal Airway Obstruction
Individuals referring to “sinus collapse” are usually describing nasal valve collapse, a structural issue affecting nasal passages and airflow, distinct from the paranasal sinuses themselves. The nasal valve is a narrow area within the nose, crucial for regulating the air that enters and exits. This area is divided into two main parts: the internal nasal valve, located in the middle of the nose, and the external nasal valve, found near the nostrils.
The internal nasal valve is formed by the septum, the caudal edge of the upper lateral cartilage, and the inferior turbinate. The external nasal valve, conversely, is defined by the lower lateral cartilages and the alar rim. Both valves are composed of cartilage and soft tissue. If they weaken or collapse, it leads to a narrowing of the airway and obstructed breathing. This weakening results in dynamic airflow obstruction, where breathing can worsen with deeper breaths due to pinching of the nostrils or internal structures.
Causes and Recognizable Symptoms
Nasal airway obstruction can arise from various factors impacting the structural integrity of the nose. Genetic predisposition can play a role, as some individuals are born with nasal structures that inherently increase their risk. Trauma, such as a broken nose, can damage the supporting cartilage and tissues, leading to collapse. Aging also contributes, as the cartilage in the nose naturally weakens and loses its flexibility over time.
Previous nasal surgeries, particularly rhinoplasty, may sometimes alter the nasal architecture and inadvertently weaken the cartilage, leading to a collapse. A deviated septum, where the cartilage dividing the nostrils is crooked, can narrow one or both sides of the nasal passage, contributing to valve collapse. Chronic inflammation from allergies or sinusitis can also affect the soft tissue and cartilage, increasing the risk.
Individuals experiencing nasal valve collapse report symptoms including difficulty breathing through the nose, often worsening during physical exertion or when lying down. Chronic nasal congestion or a persistent stuffy nose, even without a cold, is common. Many also experience snoring and mouth breathing, especially at night, which can lead to a dry mouth upon waking. A reduced sense of smell can also be a symptom.
Diagnosis and Available Treatments
Diagnosing nasal airway obstruction involves a thorough evaluation by a medical professional. The process typically begins with a review of the patient’s medical history and symptoms, often utilizing questionnaires like the Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation (NOSE) scale. A physical examination of the nose is performed, which may include using a nasal speculum or an endoscope to visualize the internal structures.
A common diagnostic test is the Cottle Maneuver, where the healthcare provider gently pulls the cheek to the side to widen the nasal valve. If this maneuver temporarily improves breathing, it suggests that the nasal valve area is contributing to the obstruction. A modified Cottle maneuver involves using a small instrument or cotton swab inside the nostril to support the cartilage and assess improvement. While imaging studies are not typically used to diagnose dynamic collapse, they may be considered to rule out other causes of obstruction.
Treatment options for nasal airway obstruction range from non-surgical interventions to surgical procedures. Non-surgical approaches for mild symptoms include external nasal strips, which lift the skin to open the nostrils, and internal nasal dilators, which are devices inserted into the nostrils to keep them open. These devices provide temporary relief by mechanically widening the nasal passages.
When non-surgical methods are insufficient, surgical intervention may be recommended. Surgical options aim to reinforce or reconstruct the nasal valve and improve airflow. Procedures include septoplasty (correcting a deviated septum) and turbinate reduction (decreasing enlarged turbinates). For nasal valve collapse, grafting often involves using cartilage or bone from another part of the body, such as the ear or rib, to strengthen nasal structures. Implants can also be placed to support collapsed cartilage, and these surgeries are often outpatient.
Life After Diagnosis and Long-Term Care
After addressing nasal airway obstruction, individuals can generally anticipate a notable improvement in their quality of life. Successful treatment often leads to enhanced nasal breathing, which in turn can contribute to better sleep quality and a reduction in symptoms like snoring and dry mouth. The ability to breathe more freely through the nose can also improve participation in physical activities.
Following surgical procedures, post-operative care involves specific instructions to support healing. Patients are typically advised to get sufficient rest, use saline nasal sprays to keep the passages clear, and avoid strenuous activities or heavy lifting for a few weeks to minimize the risk of bleeding or swelling. Regular follow-up appointments with healthcare providers are important to monitor recovery and address any persistent or new concerns that may arise.