Difficulty Breathing & Nasal Block

Several conditions can cause breathing problems and nasal obstruction:
Allergic Rhinitis: One of the most common causes, due to environmental allergens like pollen or dust.
Sinus Infections (Sinusitis): Acute or chronic inflammation of the sinuses can lead to nasal congestion and post-nasal drip affecting breathing.
Nasal Polyps: Benign growths in the nasal passages that can obstruct airflow.
Deviated Nasal Septum: A structural problem that narrows the nasal passage.
Foreign Bodies (especially in children): Can cause sudden-onset nasal block.
Enlarged Adenoids or Tonsils: Common in children, leading to nasal speech and mouth breathing.
Tumors or Cancer: Nasopharyngeal carcinoma, sinonasal tumors, or other head and neck cancers can present with unilateral (one-sided) nasal block, bleeding, and breathing difficulty.
Laryngeal or Tracheal Obstruction: Tumors involving the voice box or windpipe can directly cause difficulty in breathing.

Yes. Persistent, progressive, or one-sided nasal blockage, especially when associated with other symptoms like nosebleeds, facial pain, loss of smell, or swelling, may be signs of cancer in the nasal cavity, paranasal sinuses, or nasopharynx.
Breathing difficulty, particularly if it worsens over time or is accompanied by voice changes, stridor (noisy breathing), or weight loss, can indicate laryngeal cancer or tracheal tumors.
High-risk features that warrant prompt medical attention include:
•   Nasal block lasting more than 3 weeks without a clear cause
•   Unilateral nasal obstruction
•   Blood-stained nasal discharge
•   Facial swelling or numbness
•   Progressive difficulty breathing or voice change
•   History of tobacco use, alcohol consumption, or exposure to wood dust or formaldehyde
•   Early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes and may allow for organ preservation in many head and neck cancers.

While most cases of nasal block and breathing issues are benign and manageable, persistent or unusual symptoms should never be ignored. They can sometimes be the first sign of a developing cancer in the nasal passages, sinuses, or airway. If you're experiencing persistent symptoms, especially alongside risk factors, seek prompt evaluation by a head and neck specialist. Early intervention can be lifesaving.