What should you know about persistent stuffy nose?

A blocked nose happens when the nasal lining swells, mucus thickens, or the nasal passage is narrowed. Allergic Rhinitis and House Dust Mite Allergy can cause congestion, sneezing, itching, and watery discharge. A Common Cold often improves as the infection settles, while Sinusitis or Chronic Sinusitis may bring facial pressure, reduced smell, or thick mucus. Night-time blockage with loud snoring, pauses in breathing, or marked daytime tiredness can occur with Obstructive Sleep Apnoea.

Book a clinical review when congestion persists, keeps returning, affects sleep, or is mainly on one side. Saline rinsing may loosen mucus; use clean water prepared as directed and keep the device clean. Reduce exposure to smoke, strong scents, and known allergens. Allergy Medication may help when symptoms follow a clear allergy pattern, but ask a pharmacist or clinician which option suits you and how long to use it.

Seek urgent care if blockage comes with difficulty breathing, swelling around an eye, severe headache, confusion, a stiff neck, heavy nose bleeding that does not stop, or a serious injury. Arrange prompt assessment for persistent one-sided blockage, repeated blood-stained discharge, high fever, severe facial pain, or worsening symptoms after initial improvement.

Could this be Allergic Rhinitis, Sinusitis, or Chronic Sinusitis? Are my night symptoms suggestive of Obstructive Sleep Apnoea? Which nasal treatment is appropriate, and when should I return if it does not improve?