Strange breathing difficulties after nose surgery? Let's learn about this 'Empty Nose Syndrome'.

Have you had any surgery on your nose? Maybe it was to fix the nasal bridge, or to make breathing easier. But after the surgery, even though your nose is completely open, do you feel any strange or difficult breathing? If so, it is very important for you to be aware of this condition that we are going to talk about today, called 'Empty Nose Syndrome' or `(Empty Nose Syndrome - ENS)`.

What is this 'Empty Nose Syndrome'?

Simply put, this is the most unusual condition that some people can experience after nose surgery. You can expect things like difficulty breathing, a dry nose, nosebleeds, and headaches .

However, this is a very rare condition . Because most nose surgeries are successful, very few people develop this condition called `(ENS)`.

In fact, there is still no consensus among the medical community about this `(Empty Nose Syndrome)`. The reason for this is that there is still no complete understanding of what exactly this condition is and why it occurs. Imagine, after having surgery to open up the nasal passages, it seems illogical that breathing would feel even more difficult? But, that is exactly what people with this condition experience.

So, yes, ``Empty Nose Syndrome'' is a real condition. However, experts are still figuring out why it happens.

Who is more likely to develop this condition?

This `(ENS)` condition often affects people who have had nose surgery. For example:

• Septoplasty (nose surgery)
• Turbinate reduction is a surgical procedure that reduces the size of the turbinates (these are bony structures inside the nose).

This risk is primarily for those who have had this type of surgery.

What are the symptoms of this? How do you recognize it?

The main thing that many people with ENS feel is that when they breathe through their nose, they feel like they can't get enough air in their chest . That is, when they take a breath in, it feels like it's not enough.

In addition, there may be a number of other symptoms:

• The nose feels congested , but in reality the nasal passages are well open.
• Nosebleeds .
• The air you breathe feels very cold or dry .
• Dizziness .
• Decreased production of nasal mucus.
• The nose is very dry .
• It's like you can't even feel like you're breathing.
• Headaches .
• Feeling like you're suffocating, like you're drowning .
• Post-nasal drip is a feeling of mucus coming down the back of the throat.
• Feeling pain in the nose area.
• Inflammation (conditions such as inflammation, swelling, etc.) inside the nose.
• Problems with the sense of taste (ageusia) or smell (anosmia).
• Insomnia .
• Always feeling tired .

These symptoms are not the same for everyone. Some people may experience these symptoms weeks, months, or even years after surgery. These symptoms can be very disruptive to daily activities, making it difficult for many people to focus on their work. In addition, this condition can cause some people to experience psychological problems such as anxiety and depression .

Why does this happen? What are the reasons?

In fact, experts still don't have a clear idea why only some people who have had nose surgery develop this condition (ENS) and why others don't. Research is still ongoing on this. Doctors think there are several possible reasons for this:

• Differences in nasal pressure levels: Our body can sense differences in pressure or temperature inside the nasal cavities. Sometimes this sense is not working properly, which can cause you to not feel like you are breathing properly.
• Interference with nasal receptors: Sensors that detect changes in pressure or temperature may be located on the turbinates inside the nose. If these receptors are damaged during surgery, the sensation of breathing through the nose may be lost.
• Overgrowth of harmful bacteria: During nasal surgery, some of the mucus that controls the healthy bacteria inside the nose may be removed. This reduction in mucus can increase the chance of harmful bacteria growing, which can worsen ENS symptoms.

How do doctors distinguish this from other diseases?

Because this condition is not yet fully understood, diagnosing it is a bit complicated . Currently, there is no standard test that can tell you for sure whether you have this condition or not.

However, your doctor may rule out other conditions that cause similar symptoms to yours and conclude that it could be ENS. To do this, they may use an endoscope (a flexible tube with a camera and light) to look inside your nose.

What are the treatments for this? Can it be cured?

The main goal of treatment for `(Empty Nose Syndrome)` is to reduce discomfort and control symptoms . This may include home care, medications, and sometimes even surgery.

Things you can do at home

There are several things you can do at home to help relieve your ENS symptoms:

• Drinking plenty of warm liquids (e.g. soup, tea).
• Using a humidifier while sleeping adds moisture to the air in the room.
• If your doctor recommends it, use a CPAP machine to treat breathing problems during sleep.

In general, people who live in warm, humid climates (especially coastal areas with salty air) tend to have less severe symptoms of ENS . This is because the nose is more moist. Your doctor may recommend nasal decongestants and saline sprays. These can help reduce nasal dryness, crusting, and discomfort.

Medicines that can be taken on medical advice

Some medications – for example , estrogen creams and erectile dysfunction drugs – are thought to help reduce the symptoms of ENS by slightly enlarging the nasal tissues.

Additionally, saline sprays can be used to moisten the nasal passages. However, some doctors recommend using a nasal spray containing an antibiotic at the same time as salt water, as these can wash away the good bacteria in the nose. Ask your doctor for advice on this.

What is done with surgery?

The goal of surgery is to increase the amount of tissue remaining in the nasal cavity (turbinate). This can be done using tissue implants or other materials. This can help balance the airflow in the nasal passages and reduce symptoms.

Currently, experts are also researching non-surgical treatments such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections.

The important thing is that there is currently no cure for this condition (ENS) . However, by working with your doctor, you can manage your symptoms and make your life easier.

Is there a way to prevent this situation from occurring?

Unfortunately, there is currently no way to completely prevent the occurrence of `(ENS)`.

However, some studies suggest that less invasive laser techniques , such as radiofrequency turbinate reduction, may help reduce the risk of ENS. This is because these radiofrequency techniques are more precise and avoid unnecessary removal of nasal tissue.

If you want to have nose surgery, ask your doctor about less invasive methods like this (radiofrequency).

What to expect when living with Empty Nose Syndrome?

Empty Nose Syndrome is a very frustrating and uncomfortable condition . It may take a bit of trial and error to find the best treatment for your symptoms. Don't worry, your doctor will help you find a solution that works for you.

When should I see a doctor?

If you experience symptoms of `(ENS)`, such as difficulty breathing, dry nose, or nosebleeds, see your doctor immediately . Your doctor can then determine whether your symptoms are caused by `(ENS)` or another condition.

Empty Nose Syndrome (ENS) can interfere with your ability to breathe properly and can have a negative impact on your quality of life. If you are experiencing difficulty breathing or other troubling symptoms of ENS, it is important to see a doctor immediately. With proper diagnosis and treatment, you can get back on track to living a normal life.

Take-Home Message

• Empty Nose Syndrome (ENS) is a rare condition that can occur after nasal surgery.
• The main symptoms are difficulty breathing even when the nose is open, a dry nose, and nosebleeds.
• The exact cause of this has not yet been found , and there is no specific treatment that provides a cure.
• The diagnosis is made by ruling out other diseases with similar symptoms.
• The goal of treatment is to control symptoms and make life easier. This can include home care, medication, and possibly surgery.
• If you have these symptoms, definitely seek medical advice . Don't panic, and work with your doctor to deal with this situation.

I hope you find this information useful. Stay healthy!

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