Nasal valve collapse is an obstruction that occurs when the nasal valve is weakened or narrowed. This condition can cause severe nasal congestion, difficulty breathing, and other uncomfortable symptoms.
What Causes Nasal Valve Collapse?
Nasal valve collapse can be caused by:
- A deviated septum
- Prior nose surgery or cosmetic rhinoplasty, including dorsal hump removal (can cause bilateral internal valve collapse)
- Nose trauma or fracture (may cause saddling of the nasal bridge, inflammation, enlarged tissue, or excess scar tissue)
- The aging process (weakens the overall structure of the nose)
- Congenital defect (such as narrow nostrils)
Nasal valve collapse can be difficult to initially diagnose. In fact, many physicians overlook nasal valve collapse as a major cause of sinus conditions. In determining if you have nasal valve collapse, you must first meet with a board certified ENT (otolaryngologist) or other sinus specialists for proper diagnosis. Be sure to explain all of your symptoms and disclose any previous rhinoplasty procedures.