Imagine breathing through a straw. That inadequate airflow, the feeling of something missing, and the overwhelming discomfort of being unable to take a deep breath – are what Empty Nose Syndrome (ENS) patients often experience.
Empty Nose Syndrome is a rare condition that affects the nasal passages, leaving you with a constant sense of nasal emptiness and discomfort.
Let’s discuss ENS, its causes, and its symptoms. We will also explore the management and treatment options available for this condition.
Table of Contents
What is Empty Nose Syndrome?
Empty nose syndrome is a medical condition that primarily affects the nasal passages and can result in a persistent sensation of nasal obstruction despite clear nasal passages.
This disorder often leaves patients feeling as though there is an emptiness, a void, or a lack of airflow in their nasal passages, even without any physical obstruction.
While it’s relatively rare, ENS can impact a person’s quality of life, affecting their ability to breathe comfortably and enjoy daily activities.
What are the Causes of Empty Nose Syndrome?
The exact causes are still unknown, which adds to the complexity of diagnosing and treating this condition. However, several factors can contribute to its development:
Surgical Interventions
ENS is most commonly associated with previous nasal surgeries when the surgeries involve the reduction or removal of nasal tissues.
Procedures like turbinate reduction, septoplasty, or sinus surgery can inadvertently change the nasal airflow dynamics, causing the characteristic symptoms of ENS.
Oversized Turbinates
The turbinates are structures inside the nose that help regulate airflow and humidity.
In some cases, individuals may naturally have oversized turbinates, which can create turbulent airflow patterns, ultimately leading to ENS.
Allergic Rhinitis
Chronic allergic rhinitis, which causes inflammation and congestion in the nasal passages, can also contribute to ENS. Repeated bouts of congestion and inflammation can alter the usual nasal airflow patterns.
Environmental Factors
Prolonged exposure to dry or arid environments and excessive use of nasal decongestant sprays can irritate and dry out the nasal passages, potentially causing or exacerbating ENS symptoms.
Suggested Read: How to Get Rid of Tickle in Nose?
Nasal Trauma
Previous nasal injuries or fractures can disrupt the normal nasal airflow patterns, contributing to ENS.
What are the Symptoms of Empty Nose Syndrome?
The condition can manifest differently from person to person, but there are some common signs and sensations associated with ENS:
Paradoxical Nasal Congestion
ENS patients often experience a counterintuitive phenomenon – while they feel congested, their nasal passages may appear clear and open upon examination.
Persistent Nasal Discomfort
A constant feeling of nasal emptiness or obstruction, as if something is missing inside the nose, is a hallmark symptom of ENS. Patients describe this sensation as a “hole in the head.”
Difficulty Breathing
ENS can make breathing through the nose challenging, leading to mouth breathing and related issues like dry mouth and bad breath.
Dry Nose and Throat
The disrupted airflow in ENS can result in dry nasal and throat tissues, causing discomfort and increased susceptibility to respiratory infections.
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Anxiety and Depression
Living with ENS can take a toll on one’s mental health. Chronic discomfort and breathing difficulties can lead to anxiety and depression in affected individuals.
Sleep Problems
ENS can impact sleep quality due to nasal congestion and discomfort. Sleep disturbances can further exacerbate overall health and well-being.
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How to Treat Empty Nose Syndrome?
Managing and treating ENS can be complex, as it depends on the individual’s specific symptoms, the underlying causes, and the severity of the condition.
Here are some approaches to consider:
Medical Evaluation
If you suspect you have ENS, consult with an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist. They can conduct a thorough evaluation, which may include nasal endoscopy and imaging, to determine the extent of the problem and its underlying causes.
Symptomatic Relief
Nasal saline sprays can help keep the nasal passages moist, reducing discomfort. Over-the-counter or prescription nasal steroids may help reduce inflammation and improve airflow.
Humidification
A humidifier in your bedroom can help maintain adequate humidity levels, reducing the dryness in your nasal passages and throat. It can alleviate discomfort associated with ENS.
Avoid Overuse of Decongestants
You should use nasal decongestant sprays sparingly and only as directed, as their overuse can exacerbate ENS symptoms. Your doctor can guide proper usage.
Behavioral and Lifestyle Modifications
Making adjustments to your daily habits can help manage ENS symptoms. Staying hydrated, breathing through your nose whenever possible, and avoiding irritants like smoking and environmental allergens can all relieve the symptoms.
Surgical Interventions
In some cases, surgical procedures that address ENS, such as turbinate reconstruction or the placement of nasal implants, can help improve nasal airflow and alleviate symptoms.
When Should You Visit an ENT Specialist?
You should consider visiting an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist for empty nose syndrome (ENS) if you are experiencing persistent and distressing symptoms related to your nasal passages and have ruled out other common causes of nasal issues.
If conservative measures do not alleviate the symptoms, consult the best ENT specialists near you for a thorough evaluation.
