Is Your Nose Functioning Properly?
I’m a 30-year-old female. I’ve noticed that when I inhale through my nose, one of my nostrils seems to fall in. Could this be a sign of a deviated septum? I’ll provide more details in the comments below.
Answers (1)
7/9/2025, 5:40:48 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you have concerns about your nasal function, particularly regarding the inhalation process and the appearance of your nasal passages. When one nostril appears to collapse or fall in while you inhale, this can be associated with a few issues, including the possibility of a deviated septum, but it could also be related to nasal congestion or anatomical variations.
Explanation: The septum is the cartilage and bone that divides your nasal cavity into two nostrils. If it's deviated, one side may be more open than the other, leading to uneven airflow and the sensation you're experiencing. Additionally, conditions such as allergies, nasal polyps, or sinus infections could cause swelling that affects airflow.
Next Steps:
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Observe Symptoms: Pay attention to any other symptoms, such as nasal congestion, difficulty breathing, sinus pressure, or whether you tend to breathe more easily through one nostril than the other throughout the day.
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Nasal Hygiene: Practice good nasal hygiene by using saline nasal sprays to keep your nasal passages moist, which can help with airflow.
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Avoid Irritants: Stay away from allergens like smoke, dust, or strong fragrances that can exacerbate nasal issues.
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Positioning: When lying down, try sleeping on your side. This can sometimes improve airflow if one nostril is more blocked than the other.
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Monitor Changes: Keep a diary of your symptoms over the next week to see if the condition changes or improves with your interventions.
If your symptoms persist or worsen, consider seeking a detailed evaluation from a healthcare professional to determine the exact cause and discuss potential treatments, such as breathing exercises or, in some cases, surgery for a deviated septum. Let me know if you have more details or further questions!
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