Paediatric Blocked Nose

What is causes a blocked nose in children?

A blocked nose is a common and frustrating symptom in children.  Frequently nasal obstruction is caused by large adenoids which obstruct the flow of air through the nose. Furthermore, nasal obstruction can also be due to either deviated or bulky anatomy within the nose (which interferes with airflow) or inflammation of the lining of the nose such as in allergic rhinitis (allergy in the nose).

What are the symptoms of a blocked nose?

Symptoms associated with a blocked nose can include; snoring, mouth breathing, nasal drip (front or back), smell loss (anosmia), facial pain & fullness, headaches and nose bleeds (epistaxis).

How do you treat a blocked nose?

Treatment of a blocked nose will depend on the underlying cause. As part of the assessment, an in-office nasendoscopy is used to visualise the inside of the nose.

Medical treatment in the form of targeted nasal sprays & rinses is often a first line measure whilst initial investigations are performed. If these treatments are unsuccessful then excellent surgical options are available to remove the adenoids and unblock the nose (eg adenoidectomy & turbinoplasty).

Although very low risk, all potential risks and complications will be discussed in detail before proceeding with any operation.