It is normal to breathe more through one nostril than the other. This is due to the nasal cycle, an unconscious process controlled by the autonomic nervous system.

The Nasal Cycle

Here are some key points about the nasal cycle:

  • It happens every 2-6 hours without you even noticing.
  • Alternating dominance: The nasal cycle causes the nostrils to alternate in dominance throughout the day. This means that one nostril will be more congested while the other is more open, and then they switch.
  • Tissue swelling: Unequal blood flow to the nostrils causes the tissue in one nostril to swell, blocking it, while the other remains open.
  • Prevalence: Researchers believe that 70–80% of adults experience a regular nasal cycle.
  • Types: The sources mention four types of nasal cycles: classic, parallel, irregular, and acyclic. The classic cycle is the most common, with equal congestion and decongestion occurring in a regular pattern.
  • Influencing factors: Factors such as body posture, age, and certain conditions can affect a person’s nasal cycle.

While breathing primarily through one nostril is usually harmless, it’s important to be aware of other symptoms that could indicate an underlying problem. These include:

  • Change or loss of smell and taste
  • Whistling sound when breathing
  • Nosebleeds
  • Runny nose
  • Itchy nose
  • Headaches
  • Facial pain
  • Tiredness or fatigue
  • Fever
  • Vision changes, such as double vision

If you experience any of these symptoms, especially if they last for more than two weeks or interfere with your daily life, you should consult a doctor.

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