Why is nasal breathing so important?
The nose serves as the "gateway" to the lungs and acts as a natural protective barrier. It performs several critical functions:

1. Air filtration – The mucous membrane and tiny hairs in the nasal cavity trap dust, microbes, and allergens.

2. Air warming and humidification – Air inhaled through the nose is warmed to body temperature and humidified, protecting the respiratory tract.

3. Sense of smell – Nasal breathing allows detection of odors, important for daily comfort and safety (e.g., detecting smoke or gas).

4. Optimal oxygen delivery – Nasal breathing facilitates efficient air transport to the lungs and better oxygen absorption.

 

Main causes of nasal breathing disorders
Several factors can lead to problems with nasal breathing:

• Anatomical causes – Deviated septum, trauma to nasal bone structures.

• Chronic inflammatory processes – Sinusitis, rhinitis, adenoid hypertrophy.

• Allergic conditions – Allergic rhinitis, seasonal allergies.

• Polyps – Benign growths in the nasal cavity that obstruct airflow.

• Environmental factors – Polluted air, cigarette smoke, dry environments.

 

Consequences of impaired nasal breathing

1. Respiratory problems
   Mouth breathing allows unfiltered air into the respiratory system, increasing the risk of:

• Bronchitis, pneumonia, tonsillitis, pharyngitis

• Severe allergic reactions

• Chronic cough and throat irritation

 

2. Sleep quality deterioration
   Nasal obstruction can lead to:

• Snoring – due to restricted airflow

• Sleep apnea – temporary pauses in breathing causing oxygen deficiency

• Shallow and restless sleep → daytime fatigue, low energy, poor concentration

 

3. Cardiovascular strain
   Oxygen deficiency forces the heart to work harder, potentially contributing to:

• High blood pressure

• Heart rhythm disturbances

• Cardiovascular disease

 

4. Brain function impairment
   Chronic oxygen deficiency can affect brain function:

• Reduced concentration and memory

• Chronic fatigue and irritability

• In children – decreased learning ability and developmental delays

 

5. Oral health problems
   Mouth breathing dries the oral cavity, leading to:

• Gum inflammation

• Tooth decay

• Bad breath

• Plaque formation

 

6. Facial and jaw development issues in children
   Chronic mouth breathing in children may cause:

• Improper jaw and facial bone formation

• Misaligned teeth

• Tongue position abnormalities, affecting speech

 

What should be done in case of nasal breathing disorders?

1. Early diagnosis – Visit an ENT specialist to identify the cause.

2. Allergy management – Consult an allergist if allergic rhinitis is present.

3. Surgical intervention – In cases of septal deviation, polyps, or adenoids, surgery may be necessary.

4. Healthy lifestyle – Avoid smoking, stay in clean air, maintain environmental hygiene.

5. Sleep hygiene – Monitoring by a specialist is required for snoring or sleep apnea.

 

Nasal breathing disorders are not just a minor inconvenience – they affect almost every system in the body. Ignoring the problem increases the risk of chronic diseases, fatigue, cardiovascular and respiratory complications.

If you have difficulty breathing through your nose, it is important to consult a doctor promptly to address the underlying cause and prevent long-term consequences.