Ear, nose, and throat (ENT) problems make up around 10% of primary care consultations,1 most of which can be managed effectively in primary care, with a small percentage of cases requiring referral to secondary care. Patients suffering from nasal obstruction often present with a feeling of fullness in the nasal cavity and reduced airflow. A detailed history of symptoms is essential (Box 1), along with its effect on the patient’s quality of life.2
Nasal obstruction
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History
EXAMINATION
Externally, the relation of the nose with adjacent tissue and structures should be assessed, along with identification of any bony and cartilaginous nasal deformities. Two common methods have been described to assess nasal airflow: the first is occlusion of one nostril and assessing the inflow and outflow through the opposite nostril, and the second uses a metal tongue depressor, observing the misting on the metal surface and comparing the two …
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