Struggling to get a full night’s rest despite going to bed on time? If you snore, wake up gasping, or feel exhausted in the morning, your nose could be part of the problem. At ENT Specialists of Austin, our experienced ENT physicians evaluate nasal anatomy as a key factor in sleep disorders like snoring and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Addressing nasal blockage may be the first step toward better sleep and improved health.

Why Nasal Breathing Matters at Night

Your nose plays an essential role in how you breathe, especially while sleeping. When your nasal airway is open, it allows smooth airflow to your lungs. But if your nose is congested or structurally narrowed, your body may compensate by breathing through your mouth, which often leads to snoring. In more serious cases, it can contribute to sleep apnea, which means that your breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep.

Nasal obstruction forces your body to work harder for each breath. Over time, this strain can impact sleep quality, oxygen levels, and overall health. If you’ve tried over-the-counter remedies for snoring or sleep apnea with little success, nasal anatomy could be the underlying issue.

Common Nasal Issues That Disrupt Sleep

Several nasal conditions can contribute to poor sleep:

  • A deviated septum, where the wall between the nostrils is off-center, blocking airflow
  • Enlarged turbinates – structures inside the nose that can swell and restrict breathing
  • Nasal valve collapse, especially when lying down
  • Chronic sinus inflammation or allergies causing congestion

These conditions may be subtle during the day but significantly worsen when lying flat at night.

How an ENT Can Help

At ENT Specialists of Austin, we offer advanced diagnostic tools to assess your nasal structure and function. If your sleep disturbances are linked to nasal obstruction, treatments may include:

  • Nasal surgery to correct a deviated septum (septoplasty)
  • Reduction of enlarged turbinates
  • Nasal valve repair
  • Medical management of sinus or allergy-related swelling

As ENT specialists, we understand how airway anatomy affects sleep and can tailor solutions that go beyond CPAP machines or mouthpieces. Our board-certified physicians have years of experience helping patients throughout the Austin area breathe easier and sleep better.

Schedule a Nasal Evaluation for Better Sleep

Don’t wait to seek answers if you suspect your nose is contributing to snoring or sleep apnea. A comprehensive evaluation from one of our talented, board-certified ENT doctors could uncover the root cause and suggest treatments that lead to long-term relief. Contact ENT Specialists of Austin at (512) 346-7600 to request an appointment.