Chapter 2: Nasal obstruction

Nasal obstruction is one of the most common presenting symptoms requiring medical attention at both the primary care physician and the otorhinolaryngologists' level. Nasal obstruction may be caused by anatomic, physiological, or neurologic factors. Complexity is added to this situation because, often, the causation may be multifactorial. Nasal obstruction is the primary symptom of persistent allergic rhinitis (AR) and affects up to 40% of the population. AR must be treated throughout the year; thus, treatment choices and patient compliance must be considered. It is interesting to note that AR directly affects an individual's quality of life, quality of sleep, and workplace efficiency. Therefore, the magnitude of costs to both the individual and the society must be recognized. Various medical therapies and surgical techniques will be described for the treatment of nasal obstruction.