Pediatric Nasal Obstruction

• Pediatric nasal obstruction is a common condition that can impact breathing, sleep, feeding, jaw development and even the health of the ears and sinuses.

• Early recognition of signs and symptoms is key to effective treatment.

• Proliance Surgeons Puget Sound ENT offers comprehensive care for families dealing with pediatric nasal obstruction to support your child’s health and well-being.

Why Nasal Obstruction Isn’t Just a Stuffy Nose

Pediatric nasal obstruction refers to the difficulty children face when breathing through their noses, often thought of as “congestion”. It may be caused by enlarged adenoids, allergies or structural abnormalities. This blockage can cause discomfort and interfere with sleep, physical activities and on occasion can be associated with ear and sinus problems.

Timely intervention for nasal obstruction is important, as ongoing obstruction may lead to complications such as sleep apnea, frequent ear infections and speech or language delays. Infants may struggle with feeding due to nasal congestion, while older children might have sleep disturbances or trouble concentrating.

Understanding the symptoms relevant to each age group helps sort out causes, leading to more effective treatment.

What To Watch For: Signs & Symptoms

Common signs of nasal obstruction include difficulty breathing through the nose, mouth breathing and snoring. Children may also experience a runny nose, which can be clear or colored, and may often wipe their nose or express discomfort. If you notice your child breathing through their mouth, especially during sleep or play, this may indicate nasal blockage. It may seem difficult for them to eat and breath at the same time.

The constant effort to breathe through a blocked nose can be exhausting for some, perhaps leading to increased fatigue. Nasal obstruction may disrupt sleep, resulting in daytime drowsiness and decreased performance at school. In some cases, children also experience recurrent sinus infections or allergy symptoms, which can further complicate their overall health.

Causes of Nasal Obstruction

Common culprits of nasal obstruction in very young children include congestion from colds. As kids get a little older, the development of allergies, adenoid enlargement or sinus infections may start to play a role. One may need to consider if a deviated septum, or structural issues are playing a significant role in nasal blockage.

Environmental triggers such as pollen, dust mites, pet dander and mold can lead to allergic rhinitis and chronic nasal swelling. Exposure to irritants like tobacco smoke or air pollution may worsen symptoms.

Obstruction may be acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term). Acute cases often resolve quickly, while chronic conditions may require individualized care to address ongoing issues.

Diagnosis and Treatment Options to Breathe Easier

Pediatric nasal obstruction can significantly affect a child’s health and quality of life. Accurate diagnosis is essential and typically begins with a thorough medical history and exam, focusing on nasal and throat

passages. The ears should be examined, as fluid or pressure abnormalities behind the eardrum are sometimes associated with nasal obstruction. (This is why children, or even an adults, may get an earache when flying with a stuffy nose). The ENT may recommend a hearing test or tympanogram if this is suspected. Allergy testing may be suggested. Imaging, such as X-rays, may be used to identify underlying causes like enlarged adenoids, which are in the back of the nose and can’t be seen on routine office exam.

Treatment depends on the cause and severity. Mild cases may respond to conservative options like saline sprays or allergy management based on appropriate environmental controls along with medications. More severe or structural issues may require surgical intervention, such as adenoid removal.

When To Seek Help

Consulting with a specialist who understands pediatric needs is vital for determining the right treatment plan.

Parents should seek medical advice if their child displays persistent nasal obstruction symptoms, such as difficulty breathing or disrupted sleep patterns.

Proliance Surgeons Puget Sound ENT is dedicated to providing comprehensive care for pediatric patients, helping families navigate the challenges of nasal obstruction with expertise and compassion.