Management of Empty Nose Syndrome

Understanding Empty Nose Syndrome

• Patients with empty nose syndrome often experience a sensation of suffocation or inability to feel airflow, which is a characteristic symptom of the disorder 1

Initial Conservative Management

• The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology recommends nasal saline irrigation as a first-line treatment for symptom relief in various forms of rhinitis and rhinosinusitis, which can also be applied to empty nose syndrome management 2
• Nasal saline irrigation is supported by evidence as an effective method for moisturizing the nasal cavity and removing crusts, with recommendations for regular irrigation 2-3 times daily 3

Medical Management Options

• Topical corticosteroids may help reduce inflammation in empty nose syndrome, but should be used cautiously as they can potentially worsen dryness, according to guidelines from the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology 2