My ENT doctor provided helpful insight into my shortness of breath

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a progressive lung disease, which means it worsens over time. Because there’s no cure, the goal is to try and preserve lung function for as long as possible. This may involve regular monitoring and other measures, such as pulmonary function testing, exercise, a healthy diet, and antifibrotic medications. Some patients may even undergo a lung transplant.

I was diagnosed with IPF in 2016, and while my progression has been relatively slow, I have required myriad medical interventions to preserve my lung function. I’ve also unfortunately experienced a few acute exacerbations, which entails a sudden worsening of symptoms. As a result, I’m always asking my pulmonologist about noninvasive ways to slow disease progression and manage dyspnea, or shortness of breath.

A couple months ago, following one of these conversations, my pulmonologist referred me to an otolaryngologist, more commonly known as an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctor. I didn’t have any expectations, as I know my dyspnea is directly caused by IPF. Still, I was interested in what the ENT doctor had to say.

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An unexpected discovery

I finally had my appointment a few weeks ago, and as it turned out, the otolaryngologist was able to provide some helpful insight. To my surprise, I learned there’s an issue with my airway — something I’ve likely had all my life. After a quick test, which involved me plugging one nostril and deeply inhaling then exhaling through the other, the ENT determined I have minimal airflow through my left nostril due to a deviated septum.

He clarified that this wouldn’t contribute to my hypoxia (low oxygen levels), but that it could worsen my shortness of breath. While this was interesting to learn, restoring my airflow wouldn’t be a quick or easy fix. Surgery is the only option, and I don’t know if the benefits outweigh the risks for me personally. This is something I’ll have to speak with my pulmonologist about, though the idea of increased airflow appeals to me.

The ENT doctor also shared that people with a deviated septum typically breathe through their mouth because of the reduced airflow through their nose. Mouth breathing can cause many problems, including with lung health. The nose moistens and warms the air and filters out particles, helping to prevent lung irritation and infection. We don’t get the same benefits when we breathe through our mouth. This is something I will have to consider when deciding on surgery.

Ultimately, I’m grateful I met with an otolaryngologist. I know now I should be doing a combination of nasal and mouth breathing to optimize airflow into my lungs. This will be especially beneficial during physical activity.

Every IPF patient is different, but if you struggle with significant shortness of breath, it may be worth having an ENT doctor examine your nasal structures. They may be able to provide some helpful insight.

Is an otolaryngologist part of your care team as an IPF patient? Please share your experiences in the comments below.

Note: Pulmonary Fibrosis News is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Pulmonary Fibrosis News or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to pulmonary fibrosis.