why does my DD(11) have such a blocked nose?

[anicesitdown]

So much so that she finds it hard to breathe through it at times, and when eating meals, has to stop to have a breathing break. She has mild asthma, which seems to be linked to cold, damp air rather than physical exertion, and rarely has to use an inhaler. She is fit and healthy otherwise, and has plenty of energy.

She hasn't always had it - I'd say it's been for the last 3 months or so. We live in an old house, large, single glazed, cold at night (doesn't really sound that appealing?!), with condensation on windows.

Is it likely therefore to be environmental, or dietary (too much dairy?) - has anyone had experience of a similar problem, and how did you treat it.

Thanks ladies x

My DH had asthma as a child and is a fresh air fiend so in spite of living in a huse with central heating always insists on sleeping with at least one window open, preferably the door too, born in a barn. Any cold or sore throat is 'pampered' because he can be prone to chest infections.

He had eczema too which he was later told was brought on by cow's milk so avoids dairy and takes calcium tablets. He gets by with soya milk and can take goat or sheep's cheese so not altogether devoid of dietary variety.

Someone else I know had minor surgery as a teenager to correct a deviated septum, they had experienced difficulty breathing and snoring. Nasal sprays and decongestants worked up to a point but a medical solution did the trick.

Does she have a cough at the moment? It could be post nasal drip. If so, Beconase is brilliant (not sure what age range), otherwise ask your GP for something similar.

Has your GP checked her nose to see if she has polyps. Many people have polyps and sometimes they can become a problem if they obstruct part of the nose (they can then be removed).

My DS has had terrible problems in the past with his ears and nose. The doctor diagnosed him as asthmatic (which I dont think he is personally) and he has been under the ENT at our local hospital now. I think he has allergic rhionitus (sp??) - he has a nasal spray for his nose which has really helped him no end.

Living with damp certainly doesnt help but maybe take her to the doctors and insist on a referral to the ENT who will be able to tell you exactly what it going on.