What should you know about frequent nose block?

The blockage may switch sides or stay on one side, and it can affect sleep, smell and exercise. Track when it happens, what comes out of the nose, and whether sneezing, facial pressure, fever or snoring is present.

Allergic Rhinitis and House Dust Mite Allergy often cause a stuffy or runny nose with sneezing, itching or watery eyes. A Common Cold can cause temporary congestion with throat or general viral symptoms. Sinusitis and Chronic Sinusitis may involve facial pressure, thick discharge or reduced smell. Obstructive Sleep Apnoea becomes a consideration when blockage accompanies loud snoring, breathing pauses or unrefreshing sleep.

Avoid smoke and strong scents, and reduce dust in sleeping areas. Saline spray or rinse may clear mucus; follow the product directions and use safe, clean water for rinsing. Raising the head slightly at night can make breathing more comfortable. Ask a pharmacist about Allergy Medication if symptoms suggest allergy, especially if you have chronic illness or take other medicines.

Arrange a review if the nose block repeatedly returns, lasts beyond an expected cold, affects sleep or smell, or is consistently one-sided. Seek urgent care for swelling around the eyes, severe facial pain, high fever, breathing difficulty, confusion, or bleeding that does not settle with firm pressure. A child struggling to breathe or feed needs urgent help.

Ask whether allergy, sinus inflammation, infection or sleep-related narrowing is most consistent with the pattern; whether a nasal examination is needed; and how to use sprays correctly. Mention dust exposure, snoring, reduced smell, facial pain, medicines and recurrent nosebleeds.