Anatomy and Physiology of Nasal Obstruction

Nasal obstruction is a common presenting symptom to clinicians and affects up to one-third of the population. There are several factors that cause nasal obstruction, including anatomic, physiologic, and pathophysiologic factors. The anatomy and physiology of nasal obstruction is complicated and is influenced by patency of nasal passages, mucociliary function, airflow receptors, autonomic function, and degree of mucosal inflammation. Common anatomic causes include internal nasal valve stenosis/collapse, septal deviation, and turbinate hypertrophy. Common physiologic causes include sinonasal inflammatory disorders and iatrogenic causes.

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