What should you know about left nose always blocked?

Long-lasting one-sided blockage can follow Allergic Rhinitis, repeated irritation, Chronic Sinusitis or a previous nasal injury. A deviated nasal partition, swollen tissue or a polyp can narrow the passage on one side. House dust mite allergy may cause congestion that is worse in the bedroom, while a Common Cold usually improves as the infection settles. The sensation can also vary with the normal nasal cycle, although a constant pattern is worth discussing.

Record how long it has been present and whether you have discharge, crusting, nosebleeds, facial pressure, reduced smell, snoring or mouth breathing. These accompanying features help distinguish temporary lining swelling from a problem needing an examination.

Try a gentle saline spray or rinse and avoid smoke, strong fragrances and picking the nose. Clean dusty bedding and improve ventilation if bedroom symptoms suggest an allergy trigger. A pharmacist or clinician can advise whether Allergy Medication is suitable. Avoid using medicated decongestant sprays beyond the label directions, as rebound swelling can maintain the blocked feeling. Book a GP or ear, nose and throat assessment if the left side remains blocked or affects sleep, smell, work or exercise.

Seek urgent help if blockage is accompanied by serious breathing difficulty, swelling around an eye, vision changes, a severe headache, confusion or a high fever with severe illness. Arrange prompt review for repeated bleeding, bloody or foul-smelling discharge, increasing facial pain, or a new persistent blockage after an injury. Loud snoring, witnessed breathing pauses and daytime sleepiness should also be assessed because nasal obstruction can contribute to sleep-related breathing symptoms.

Could this be allergy, Sinusitis or a structural narrowing? Do I need an examination of the nasal passage? Which spray or medicine is appropriate, and how long should I use it?