Nasal Obstruction

Blockage or obstruction of the nasal passages is common and can aggravate snoring problems. Although the nasal blockage does not itself often cause the snoring, by making it worse, it may produce a problematic situation. Thus, improving nasal breathing not only is worthwhile in itself to help the individual breath better, it may help snoring too.

Nasal blockage may be caused by a number of factors. These include:

1. Nasal septal deviation
2. Enlarged turbinates (e.g. due to rhinitis)
3. Nasal polyps or sinusitis
4. Enlarged adenoids

These problems may co-exist, but an examination will reveal what needs to be done to rectify the problem. In most cases, surgery is required. This is usually highly successful in overcoming the problem, permanently. Many patients who have these treatments are astonished at how bad their blockage was, once they experience the freedom of being able to breathe clearly through the nose! Since these operations are largely carried out under general anaesthetic, they are done at the Clementine Churchill Hospital nearby. A consultation with Mr. Marais (www.the-nose.info) at the Clementine Churchill (020-8872-3838) will be required. Unlike most anti-snoring procedures, surgery of this type is generally covered by most insurance policies.