Suicidal thoughts in patients with empty nose syndrome.

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Nasal Surgery
• Psychological Health

Background:

• Empty Nose Syndrome (ENS) is characterized by paradoxical nasal obstruction despite a patent airway.
• ENS often results from excessive turbinate reduction and is associated with significant anxiety and depression.
• The psychological impact of ENS, particularly suicidal ideation, requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of suicidal thoughts in patients with ENS.
• To identify clinical characteristics associated with suicidal ideation in ENS patients.
• To inform early identification and intervention strategies for ENS patients at risk.

Main Methods:

• Prospective case series involving 62 ENS patients.
• Assessment using Sino-Nasal Outcome Test-25 (SNOT-25), Empty Nose Syndrome 6-item Questionnaire (ENS6Q), Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), and Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II).
• Evaluations were conducted preoperatively and 6 months post-nasal reconstruction surgery.

Main Results:

• Twenty-three of 62 ENS patients (37%) reported suicidal thoughts preoperatively.
• ENS patients with suicidal thoughts exhibited significantly higher SNOT-25, ENS6Q, BAI, and BDI-II scores.
• The ENS6Q item 'Nose feels too open' was a significant predictor of suicidal thoughts (P < .001).

Conclusions:

• Suicidal thoughts are frequently observed in ENS patients.
• Patients with ENS and suicidal thoughts report more severe symptoms and psychological burden.
• Early identification of suicidal ideation in ENS patients is crucial for preventing adverse outcomes.