How can I manage my nasal collapse?

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com

Thank you for explaining everything so clearly, and I have also reviewed the photo you attached (attachment removed to protect the identity of the patient). Based on your description and the visible structure of your nose, it does appear that you have congenitally narrow nostrils. This is very likely contributing to a condition known as nasal valve collapse. This explains why your nostrils seem to close in or collapse inward when you try to breathe in.

This condition is seen in some individuals who are born with narrower nasal passages or weaker cartilage support in the nasal valve area. You mentioned that you can collapse your nostrils intentionally, and this is an important clinical sign of what is called dynamic nasal valve collapse. In this condition, the nostrils or the upper part of the nose cave in during inhalation, especially when breathing deeply, during temperature changes, physical activity, or sometimes even at rest.

Living in a place where humidity and temperature fluctuations are frequent can further worsen the sensation of restricted airflow. Because you rely mostly on mouth breathing, this can gradually affect your sleep quality, throat comfort, and overall energy levels. It is therefore appropriate that you are seeking medical advice at this stage.

Probable causes:

• Congenitally narrow nostrils with dynamic nasal valve collapse.

Investigations to be done:To confirm the diagnosis, an in-person evaluation by an ear, nose, and throat specialist is required. A detailed physical examination is essential. In some cases, the specialist may perform a nasal endoscopy, which involves using a small camera to examine the internal nasal airway. Additional investigations that may be considered include:

• CT scan of the paranasal sinuses to assess the complete nasal structure.

• Rhinomanometry, if required, to objectively measure nasal airflow.

Differential diagnosis:

• Deviated nasal septum.

• Internal nasal valve stenosis.

• Nasal polyps, which are less likely given your age and absence of typical symptoms.

• Chronic nasal congestion due to allergies, which does not appear likely based on your history.

Probable diagnosis:

• Suspected nasal valve collapse associated with structurally narrow nostrils.

Treatment plan:Given that your breathing has been significantly affected for many years and that visible inward collapse occurs during inhalation, a functional rhinoplasty or nasal valve repair is often the most effective long-term solution. This type of surgery is reconstructive rather than cosmetic and is performed to improve nasal airflow and breathing.

Non-surgical options are also available and may be tried initially. These include external nasal dilator strips, such as Breathe Right strips, which can provide temporary relief. Trying these can help determine how much improvement is possible with nasal valve support. However, for a permanent solution, surgical intervention may be required following a thorough evaluation by an ear, nose, and throat specialist.

Follow-up:You should schedule an in-person consultation with an ear, nose, and throat specialist, preferably one experienced in functional rhinoplasty. During the visit, explain your long-standing mouth breathing, visible nasal collapse, and increased difficulty with breathing during weather changes. Based on the examination findings, the specialist will guide you regarding the need for surgery and the most appropriate treatment approach.

Preventive measures:

• Avoid nasal irritants such as perfumes, dust, and exposure to cold air.

• Use saline nasal rinses if dryness or blockage occurs.

• Try nasal dilator strips during sleep or exercise if they provide relief.

• Avoid applying pressure to or repeatedly manipulating the nose.

Kindly revert if there are any queries.

Thank you.