Breathing Difficulties and Yawning After Nasal Surgery - Pulmonology

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After undergoing nasal surgery, particularly a procedure like inferior turbinate reduction, it is not uncommon to experience lingering symptoms such as nasal congestion, difficulty breathing, and unusual sensations in the chest and throat area. Your symptoms of deep breathing, frequent yawning, and a heavy feeling in the chest can indeed be related to the nasal obstruction you are experiencing, but they may also indicate other underlying issues.

1. Nasal Congestion and Oxygen Flow: The persistent congestion in your right nostril can lead to inadequate airflow, which may cause you to feel like you are not getting enough oxygen. This sensation can trigger deep breathing or yawning as your body attempts to compensate for the perceived lack of air. When one nostril is blocked, it can lead to a phenomenon known as "mouth breathing," which is less efficient than nasal breathing and can result in feelings of breathlessness or discomfort.

2. Other Potential Conditions: While your symptoms may be primarily related to nasal obstruction, they could also be indicative of other conditions. For example, anxiety can manifest as a feeling of tightness in the chest and can lead to hyperventilation, which might explain your deep breathing and yawning. Additionally, if you are experiencing any post-operative complications such as infection or inflammation, these could also contribute to your symptoms. Conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can also cause a sensation of tightness in the chest and throat, which may be exacerbated by changes in your breathing patterns.

3. Consulting the Right Specialist: Given your symptoms, it would be advisable to consult an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist first. They can evaluate the status of your nasal passages and determine if there is any residual obstruction or other issues that need to be addressed. If the ENT specialist rules out nasal issues, they may refer you to a pulmonologist to assess your respiratory function or a psychologist if anxiety is suspected to be a contributing factor.

In the meantime, there are a few strategies you can employ to help alleviate your symptoms:
- Nasal Irrigation: Using saline nasal sprays or a neti pot can help clear mucus and reduce congestion in your nasal passages.

- Humidification: Keeping the air in your home moist can help ease nasal congestion and improve breathing comfort.

- Positioning: When lying down, try elevating your head with extra pillows to facilitate easier breathing.

- Breathing Exercises: Practicing deep breathing exercises can help you manage feelings of breathlessness and promote relaxation.

It is essential to communicate openly with your healthcare provider about your symptoms and any concerns you may have. Keeping a journal of your symptoms, including when they occur and their severity, can be helpful during your consultations. This information can assist your doctor in making a more accurate diagnosis and developing an effective treatment plan.

In summary, while your symptoms may be related to the nasal surgery and subsequent congestion, they could also stem from other factors. Consulting an ENT specialist is a crucial first step in determining the underlying cause and finding appropriate relief.