Nasal Valve Collapse

Nasal Valve Collapse: What Is It?

Nasal valve collapse refers to a condition in which the narrowest part of the nasal airway, known as the internal nasal valve, becomes weakened or collapsed, leading to difficulty breathing through the nose. The nasal valve is the area where the upper and lower parts of the nose meet, and it plays a key role in regulating airflow.

When the nasal valve collapses, it causes nasal obstruction, which can lead to difficulty breathing, mouth breathing, and even snoring or sleep apnea in severe cases.

Causes of Nasal Valve Collapse

Congenital Causes (Born with It): Some people are born with a naturally narrow or weak nasal valve, making them more susceptible to collapse over time.

Trauma or Injury: Nasal fractures (broken nose) or other injuries to the nose can damage the cartilage that supports the nasal valve, leading to collapse.

Aging: As we age, the cartilage in the nose becomes weaker and less flexible, which can lead to structural changes and nasal valve collapse.

Previous Nasal Surgeries: Surgeries like rhinoplasty or septoplasty may alter the structure of the nasal passages, sometimes resulting in a collapsed nasal valve if not properly addressed.

Chronic Allergies or Inflammation: Chronic inflammation due to allergies or sinusitis can lead to changes in the soft tissue or cartilage that supports the nasal valve, increasing the risk of collapse.

Structural Abnormalities: Conditions like a deviated septum or enlarged turbinates can further narrow the nasal passages and contribute to valve collapse.

Symptoms of Nasal Valve Collapse

• Difficulty breathing through the nose, especially on one side.
• Mouth breathing, particularly during physical activity or sleep.
• Nasal congestion or stuffiness that does not improve with usual treatments (like decongestants or saline sprays).
• Whistling sound when breathing through the nose (due to the collapse of the nasal valve).
• Snoring or disrupted sleep due to nasal obstruction.
• Fatigue or poor sleep quality due to difficulty breathing.
• Worsening of symptoms with physical exertion (e.g., during exercise).

Diagnosis of Nasal Valve Collapse

A healthcare provider, usually an otolaryngologist (ENT) or a rhinologist, can diagnose nasal valve collapse through a combination of:

Physical examination: The doctor will examine your nose, including checking for signs of a collapsed valve by applying pressure to the sides of your nose.

Nasal endoscopy: A thin tube with a camera is inserted into the nose to inspect the nasal passage and valve.

Active anterior rhinomanometry: This test measures airflow resistance in the nose and can help detect narrowing or collapse of the nasal valve.

Cottle’s Maneuver: This test involves gently pulling the skin on the side of the nose, which helps open up the nasal passages. If the airflow improves with this maneuver, it suggests a nasal valve collapse.

Treatment Options for Nasal Valve Collapse

The treatment for nasal valve collapse depends on the severity and underlying cause. Options include:

Non-Surgical Treatments

Nasal Dilators: Special devices, such as external nasal strips (like Breathe Right strips) or internal nasal dilators (small devices placed inside the nose), can help temporarily widen the nasal passages and improve airflow.

Steroid Nasal Sprays: If inflammation is contributing to the collapse, nasal steroids may help reduce swelling in the nasal tissues.

Allergy Medications: If allergies are a contributing factor, antihistamines, decongestants, or other allergy treatments may help alleviate symptoms.

Surgical Treatments

If non-surgical treatments are ineffective, surgery may be necessary to correct nasal valve collapse. Surgical options include:

Nasal Valve Reconstruction: This involves restructuring or reinforcing the nasal valve using cartilage grafts (taken from the septum or ear) to provide better support and restore proper airflow.

Alar Rim Grafting: A cartilage graft is placed around the lower lateral cartilages of the nose to provide additional support and prevent collapse.

Septoplasty or Rhinoplasty: If a deviated septum or other structural issues are contributing to nasal valve collapse, a septoplasty (to straighten the septum) or rhinoplasty (nose surgery) may be performed. Click here to learn more.

Balloon Sinuplasty: In some cases, balloon sinuplasty may be used to treat associated sinus issues, improving overall nasal airflow. Click here to learn more.

Recovery and Outlook

Non-surgical treatments like nasal dilators or medications offer immediate but temporary relief. You can generally resume normal activities right away.

Surgical recovery may take several weeks, depending on the procedure. Post-operative care includes avoiding heavy physical exertion, using nasal saline rinses, and following up with your doctor for proper healing.

Overall, the prognosis for nasal valve collapse is very good if treated appropriately. Non-invasive options may provide relief, but surgery offers a more permanent solution for those with significant symptoms.