What does blocked nose feel like with sinusitis?

Sinusitis-related blockage can make both nostrils feel narrowed, with thick mucus that is difficult to clear. You may notice pressure or aching around the cheeks, forehead or bridge of the nose, reduced smell, a cough from mucus draining into the throat, or facial discomfort that changes when bending forward. Symptoms can follow a cold, but allergy and other nasal problems can feel similar. Sinusitis may be short-lived or continue for longer, so the timing and overall pattern help a clinician judge what is happening. Blocked nose alone does not identify sinusitis.

Drink fluids, rest, and use a saline spray or rinse to help clear mucus. For a rinse, choose sterile, distilled or previously boiled and cooled water and follow the product instructions. A warm compress over the face may ease pressure. A pharmacist can advise on pain relief or a nasal steroid when appropriate; ask before using medicines if you are pregnant, have long-term conditions, or take regular treatment. Avoid smoke and other irritants. Antibiotics are not suitable for every episode, so do not start leftover medicine.

Seek medical advice if symptoms are severe, keep returning, last longer than expected, or improve and then become worse again. Get urgent help for swelling or redness around an eye, vision changes, a severe headache with neck stiffness, confusion, or marked deterioration. A clinician can examine you and decide whether allergy, infection, a polyp or another cause needs treatment.

Does my combination of blockage, facial pressure and discharge fit sinusitis? Which nasal treatment is suitable, and how long should I use it? What changes would mean I need another review?