What should you know about dry blocked nose?

Dry air, heating, smoke and dust can irritate the lining and make mucus thicker. A common cold may briefly swell the nasal passages. Allergic rhinitis or house dust mite allergy may bring sneezing, itching and watery discharge. Sinusitis can add facial pressure, reduced smell or coloured mucus. Long-lasting blockage may also affect sleep; loud snoring, pauses in breathing or waking unrefreshed merit discussion because obstructive sleep apnoea can involve nasal obstruction.

Drink regularly and consider a saline spray or rinse made and used according to the product instructions. Avoid smoke and breathe humidified air without making the room excessively damp. Do not use decongestant nasal sprays beyond the recommended course, as overuse can worsen congestion. If allergy symptoms are prominent, a pharmacist can advise whether allergy medication is suitable. Seek advice before using products in a young child or during pregnancy.

Arrange medical review for blockage that persists, repeatedly affects one side, causes frequent nosebleeds or follows an injury. Seek urgent help for severe facial swelling, eye swelling, a severe headache with illness, confusion or difficulty breathing. Fever with worsening facial pain or thick discharge also deserves prompt assessment.

Ask whether the nasal lining, sinuses or allergies seem responsible, how long to try saline care, and whether your medicines could be drying the nose. Mention one-sided symptoms, bleeding, reduced smell, snoring and the products you have already used.