Sinus blocked nose: what to know

The lining inside the nose can swell and narrow the air passages. A common cold may bring a blocked or runny nose, sore throat and cough. Allergic rhinitis may cause sneezing, itching and watery discharge, often after exposure to pollen, dust or animals.

Sinusitis can add facial pressure, reduced smell, coloured mucus or discomfort that worsens when bending forward. Persistent nasal blockage may also disturb sleep. A symptom does not identify one cause on its own, and a clinician may need to examine the nose and ask about triggers.

Keep fluids nearby, avoid smoke and other irritants, and consider saline spray or a saline rinse. For a rinse, use sterile water or water that has been boiled and cooled, and clean the device as directed.

If allergy symptoms are prominent, discuss an appropriate treatment with a pharmacist or clinician; allergy medicines may help when used correctly. Follow product directions, especially for nasal decongestant sprays, which should not be used longer than advised because congestion can rebound.

Seek prompt care for swelling around an eye, severe facial pain, a severe headache, confusion, vision changes, breathing difficulty or a high fever with marked illness.

Arrange an assessment when blockage is persistent, repeatedly returns, is mainly on one side, causes frequent nosebleeds, or disrupts sleep. Snoring with pauses in breathing or marked daytime sleepiness also deserves review.

Ask what is most likely causing the blockage, whether you need treatment for allergy or sinus inflammation, how long to try it, and whether your sleep or breathing pattern needs further assessment.