Nostrils Collapse When You Breathe In? Understanding Nasal Valve Collapse

Some people notice that when they breathe in hard through the nose, the sides of the nostrils pull inward and air feels hard to get in. This is often called a collapsed nostril, and it is related to an area of the nose called the nasal valve. Here is what it is, common causes, and when to see a doctor.

What is the nasal valve?

The nasal valve sits just inside the nostril. It is the narrowest part of the nasal airway and the point of greatest airflow resistance. Because it is already narrow, weaker support around it, or anything that makes the space smaller, can make breathing in feel harder. For a deeper explanation, read What Is the Nasal Valve? Nasal Valve Collapse Symptoms and Causes.

Why do nostrils collapse when you breathe in?

When you inhale, air moves faster through the nose and the pressure inside drops, which pulls the soft side walls of the nostrils inward. Most people have enough support that the nostrils do not visibly collapse. If the support is weaker, the nostrils may pull in during inhalation and narrow the airway further. When it only happens while breathing in, it is often called dynamic nasal valve collapse.

Common causes

• Nose shape and structure: naturally narrow nostrils or softer nasal cartilage.
• Age: cartilage and skin support may weaken over time.
• Surgery or injury: previous nasal surgery or trauma to the nose.
• Other nasal conditions: such as a deviated septum or enlarged turbinates, which make a narrow area even narrower.

Simple things to observe at home

• In front of a mirror, breathe in hard through your nose and see whether the sides of your nostrils clearly pull inward.
• Gently pull your cheeks outward with your fingers. If breathing in feels easier, the front part of the nasal airway may be related to how you feel.

These are only observations, not a diagnosis. An ENT doctor can examine your nose and find the actual cause.

When to see a doctor

• Long-lasting congestion, blockage on one side only, or symptoms that keep getting worse.
• Nosebleeds, facial pain, fever or a reduced sense of smell.
• Loud snoring, waking up tired, or someone noticing you stop breathing during sleep.

Depending on the cause, a doctor may discuss options such as external nasal strips, internal nasal supports, or, when needed, surgery.

Video: how the nasal valve works

A short video on where the nasal valve is and why breathing in feels harder when it narrows.

What is Gnasal Easy Breath?

Gnasal Easy Breath is a wearable support that holds the nasal valve from inside the nostril. It is made of titanium alloy and liquid silicone (LSR), can be adjusted to your nose shape, and can be washed and reused. Like nasal strips, it is an everyday wearable product. Gnasal is not a medical device and does not treat any condition, and how it feels varies from person to person. See the size guide to choose a size.