Know your body: Do we not breathe equally out of both nostrils?

Breaking down this mechanism further, Dr Manusrut, ENT Consultant, Yashoda Hospital, Somajiguda, Hyderabad explained that our nasal cavity is divided into two halves by a wall called nasal septum. Our nose also has two flesh-like structures along the length known as turbinates.

“The nose undergoes a physiological process known as the nasal cycle in which both halves of the nose experience alternate congestion and decongestion of the turbinates, Thus, only one side works for breathing predominantly. This alternates every four to six hours in a day. This is a subconscious process and normal individuals do not notice this,” Dr Manusrut said, sharing that the nasal cycle was discovered by Indian yogis many years ago and the nasal breathing exercises of yoga are based on this principle.

While it is normal to experience a nasal cycle intermittently, some people may experience it more frequently than others. “Those who suffer from nasal congestion or allergies are more likely to experience such breathing difficulties, as these conditions can lead to blockage in one nostril, causing an imbalance in airflow,” Dr Lahiri said.

If one is noticing that one nostril is constantly blocked as compared to the other, then you must see an expert and get it treated (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

Agreeing, Dr Sheetal Radia, ENT and Head Neck Surgeon, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road said that one nostril being more open than the other can also be due to deviated septum, turbinate hypertrophy, nasal polyps, sinusitis, and nasal mass unilateral and infectious congestion.

But, is it harmful? “No, the nasal cycle is not harmful. It is a normal physiological process and does not pose any health risks. The alternating airflow through the nostrils does not affect the overall oxygen intake or respiratory function,” Dr Amit Deshpande, Founder and Director, Activist Healthcare said, adding that the nasal cycle may, in fact, have beneficial effects such as promoting air filtration, moisturising the nasal passages, and optimising olfactory function. “While the exact prevalence varies, studies suggest that around 80% of individuals experience the nasal cycle.”

Agreeing, Dr Radia said that breathing from one nostril is not fatal as it happens because of the nasal cycle, owing to spontaneous congestion and decongestion in the nostrils. “As the airflow is not the same in both nostrils, one may breathe in through one nostril more so than the other.”

However, if both the nostrils remain blocked all the time and the person is trying to breathe through the mouth, there may be a structural abnormality or other issues in the nose, she added. “In such a case, he/she should consult an ENT specialist. Also, if one is noticing that one nostril is constantly blocked as compared to the other, then you must see an expert and get it treated,” Dr Radia said.

Managing breathing during the nasal cycle does not typically require specific treatment unless it causes significant discomfort or breathing difficulties. However, here are a few tips that may help alleviate any temporary discomfort, as shared by Dr Virad Kumar, Senior Consultant, ENT at Apollo 24|7, and Apollo Hospitals, Noida.

*Stay hydrated: Drinking enough water can help keep the nasal passages moist and reduce congestion.
*Nasal irrigation: Using a saline solution or nasal spray can help clear the nasal passages and improve airflow.
*Nasal strips: Over-the-counter nasal strips can be applied to the nose to help widen the nostrils and improve airflow.
*Sleep position: Lying on your side can help alleviate congestion and promote better airflow.
*Humidify the air: Using a humidifier can add moisture to the air, which can reduce nasal congestion.
*Avoid irritants: Minimise exposure to environmental irritants such as smoke, dust, and allergens, as they can worsen nasal congestion.

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