How does rhinophyma affect breathing?

Dr. Mehmet Oz, MD

Cardiology (Cardiovascular Disease)

Rhinophyma is a rare complication of rosacea that can impair breathing. Rhinophyma causes oil glands in the skin to become enlarged, especially around the nose. The skin becomes thickened and causes the nose to develop a bulbous shape. In severe cases, people with rhinophyma may develop difficulty breathing through the nose. Various forms of surgery are available that can help improve the nose's appearance and restore normal breathing.

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Nose Disorders

Your nose plays a very important part in maintaining your health. As you breathe it filters out the bad stuff in the air like dust and germs. It also moistens the air as you breathe so that your lungs stay hydrated and healthy. You can be miserable if your nose is injured or irritated, whatever the cause. Nose disorders can range from a simple nosebleed or a runny nose that can be treated at home to more serious disorders such as nasal polyps (growths) or a deviated septum (a twist in the wall that separates the two sides of your nose) that may require surgery. Whatever the cause of your nose problem, it's important to know that you can usually be helped by seeing an ear, nose and throat (ENT) doctor.

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