Temporarily expanding your nasal passages can be achieved through simple techniques, while more permanent solutions involve medical procedures.
Temporary Expansion Techniques
A quick way to temporarily widen your nasal passages involves a simple self-massage.
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Nasal Valve Manipulation: Place one or two fingertips on your cheeks on either side of your nose. Gently press and pull outward. This temporarily opens the nasal valve, improving airflow. If this helps, your nasal obstruction might be in your nasal valve. [Source: Multiple references including UT Physicians and Cleveland Clinic].
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Breathing Exercises: Certain breathing exercises can also promote widening of the nasal passages. Holding your breath briefly may encourage natural widening. [Source: Detroit Sinus Center]
Permanent Expansion Methods (Medical Procedures)
For more persistent nasal blockage, several surgical options exist aimed at increasing the size of the nasal passage:
- Nasal Airway Remodeling: If temporary nasal valve manipulation provides relief, this surgery may be an option. [Source: Multiple references including UT Physicians and Cleveland Clinic]
- Balloon Sinuplasty: A minimally invasive procedure using a balloon catheter to enlarge sinus openings, improving drainage and potentially widening nasal passages. [Source: Johns Hopkins Medicine and WM Health]
- Endoscopic Sinus Surgery: Similar to balloon sinuplasty, this surgical approach utilizes an endoscope and may involve widening nasal passages. [Source: Johns Hopkins Medicine and Cleveland Clinic]
- Septoplasty: If a deviated septum is contributing to nasal blockage, this procedure straightens the septum, improving airflow. [Source: Cleveland Clinic]
- Surgical Removal of Nasal Polyps: If nasal polyps are obstructing the airways, surgical removal can create more space in the nasal passages. [Source: Johns Hopkins Medicine]
- Absorbable Nasal Implants: These implants provide structural support to open blocked airways. [Source: Mayo Clinic Health System]
Note: Any surgical intervention should be discussed with a qualified medical professional to determine suitability and potential risks.
