ENS Syndrome & Anxiety

Empty Nose Syndrome, or ENS, is a condition caused by over-resection of nasal tissue called turbinates. According to the Empty Nose Syndrome Association, anxiety is a common symptom reported by many ENS patients.

History

• Turbinates are tissues inside the nasal cavity that regulate airflow and moisten and warm the air we breathe. Doctors have been removing some or all of the turbanates for centuries, in an effort to relieve sinus pressure and breathing difficulties.

Causes

• ENS is an iatrogenic condition, which means that it is caused by medical intervention and does not occur naturally. According to an article in the Los Angeles Times, a doctor at the Mayo Clinic identified ENS and its ties to turbanate removal in the 1990's.

Features

• ENS sufferers report an inability to concentrate, breathe, sleep, and smell properly. These issues are thought to result in depression and anxiety in a high percentage of patients. Related symptoms include social avoidance and panic disorder.

Treatment

• Treatment of ENS-related anxiety normally consists of antidepressants or anti-anxiety medication. Reduction of the physical symptoms of ENS is anecdotally reported to alleviate the related anxiety. There are currently a wide variety of ENS treatments, from holistic nasal cleansing to surgery.

Warning

• The evidence of ENS, its treatment, and symptoms are under debate in the medical community. Consult an ear, nose, and throat specialist to discuss treatments for any sinus problems.