Question 1

Can a child have a blocked nose even if there is no mucus?

Accepted Answer

Yes. A child can have significant nasal obstruction without having a runny nose. This often occurs when the blockage is caused by enlarged adenoids, a deviated nasal septum, enlarged turbinates or narrowing of the nasal airway rather than infection. An ENT assessment can help determine the underlying cause and whether treatment is needed.

Question 2

Why does my child breathe normally during the day but struggle through the nose at night?

Accepted Answer

Nasal tissues naturally become more congested when lying down, which can make existing airway narrowing more noticeable during sleep. Allergies, enlarged adenoids and turbinate swelling may all contribute to night-time nasal obstruction. If your child snores, sleeps with an open mouth or frequently wakes during the night, it is worth discussing these symptoms with an ENT specialist.

Question 3

Could constant mouth breathing affect my child’s facial development?

Accepted Answer

Long-term mouth breathing may influence how the face, jaws and teeth develop while a child is growing, particularly if it continues for many years. It can also contribute to dry mouth, poor sleep quality and daytime tiredness. Identifying and treating the cause of chronic nasal obstruction early may help support healthy breathing and overall development.

Question 4

If my child has a deviated septum, will they eventually grow out of it?

Accepted Answer

A deviated septum does not usually straighten as a child grows. However, not every septal deviation causes symptoms or requires treatment. If the deviation is causing significant nasal obstruction, recurrent sinus problems or poor sleep, Dr Simon Braham at Melbourne ENT can assess whether monitoring, medical treatment or surgery is the most appropriate option.

Question 5

Can untreated nasal obstruction affect my child’s participation in sport or physical activity?

Accepted Answer

It can. Children who cannot breathe comfortably through their nose may find vigorous exercise more difficult, particularly if they rely on mouth breathing. Poor-quality sleep caused by nasal obstruction may also reduce energy levels, concentration and overall performance during school and recreational activities.

Question 6

How can an ENT specialist tell whether the problem is structural or caused by allergies?

Accepted Answer

An ENT assessment combines a detailed medical history with a physical examination and, when appropriate, nasal endoscopy. This allows the specialist to identify whether symptoms are due to inflammation, allergy, enlarged adenoids, turbinate swelling, a deviated septum or another structural issue. Understanding the exact cause is essential for choosing the most effective treatment.

Question 7

When might Functional Rhinoplasty become part of the discussion for a young person?

Accepted Answer

Functional Rhinoplasty is not a routine treatment for children with blocked noses. It may be considered for carefully selected older children or adolescents when there is significant structural narrowing, nasal valve collapse or deformity affecting breathing, particularly if other treatments are unlikely to provide adequate improvement. At Melbourne ENT, Dr Simon Braham carefully evaluates each patient to determine whether Functional Rhinoplasty is appropriate based on symptoms, nasal anatomy and stage of facial growth.

Tag: Children Nasal Obstruction

Nasal Obstruction in Children – When ENT Assessment Is Needed