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NOSE Score

The NOSE (Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation) Score is a widely used tool designed to assess the severity of nasal obstruction and its impact on a patient's quality of life. This patient-reported questionnaire consists of five items addressing the frequency and severity of nasal blockage, breathing difficulties through the nose, and how these symptoms affect sleep and daily activities.

The NOSE Score has been used for over 20 years to help clinicians assess the need for medical or surgical interventions and to monitor the effectiveness of treatments over time.

NOSE Score Questionnaire

The NOSE Score is determined by asking the patient how much they’ve been affected by 5 distinct symptoms over the past month:

(1) Nasal congestion or stuffiness
(2) Nasal blockage or obstruction
(3) Unable to breath through the nose
(4) Trouble sleeping
(5) Unable to get enough air through the nose during exercise or exertion

Each item is rated on a scale from 0 (not a problem) to 4 (severe problem).

NOSE Score Interpretation

The total NOSE Score is calculated by summing the individual item scores and multiplying by 5. This results in a final score ranging from 0 to 100, where higher scores indicate more severe nasal obstruction symptoms. The score breakdown is as follows:

0: No obstruction
5-25: Mild obstruction
30-50: Moderate obstruction
55-75: Severe obstruction
80-100: Extreme obstruction

Learn more on the BackTable ENT Podcast

BackTable is a knowledge resource for physicians by physicians. Get practical advice on the NOSE Score and how to build your practice by listening to the BackTable ENT Podcast, reading exclusing BackTable Articles, and following the work of our Contributors.

Ep 68 In-Office Procedures for Nasal Valve Obstruction with Dr. Mary Ashmead

00:00 / 01:04

Disclaimer: The Materials available on BackTable.com are for informational and educational purposes only and are not a substitute for the professional judgment of a healthcare professional in diagnosing and treating patients. The opinions expressed by participants of the BackTable Podcast belong solely to the participants, and do not necessarily reflect the views of BackTable.