Why Can’t You Breathe Through Your Nose? The Two Main Causes (and How to Get Relief)
Chronic difficulty breathing through the nose can interfere with sleep, exercise and everyday comfort. Dr. Ahmed Sufyan, an ear, nose and throat specialist who performs procedures at McLaren Greater Lansing, identifies inflammation and structural problems as two major categories of nasal obstruction. Inflammation can be associated with allergies or other conditions affecting nasal tissues. Structural issues may involve the septum or other parts of the airway.
Persistent congestion is not always caused by an ordinary cold. Some people notice that they breathe through their mouths at night or have trouble getting comfortable during physical activity. An examination can help identify whether swelling, anatomy or another problem is contributing to symptoms. Treatment depends on the underlying cause rather than on congestion alone.
Some patients benefit from medical management of inflammation, while others may need evaluation of structural concerns. Not every person with a blocked nose requires a procedure. An ear, nose and throat specialist can discuss the range of options after assessing the airway. McLaren's October 2026 article encourages people with chronic symptoms to seek an appropriate evaluation.
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