Why does chronic sinusitis cause blocked nose?

The sinuses are air spaces connected to the nose through small drainage passages. When the lining remains inflamed, the tissues in the nose can become swollen and mucus may not drain as freely. Airflow becomes restricted, which can make breathing through the nose harder and may reduce the sense of smell. Nasal polyps, allergies, irritants and structural differences can contribute to blockage in some people.

Blocked Nose is a very common presentation of Chronic Sinusitis, but congestion can also occur with a cold, allergy or other nasal conditions. A longer-lasting pattern with facial pressure, discoloured nasal discharge or reduced smell is worth discussing with a clinician.

Saline nasal rinsing can help clear mucus and moisture the nasal passages when done with clean equipment and safe water prepared as directed for nasal use. Your clinician may recommend a nasal steroid spray or other treatment based on the cause and your health history. Use sprays with the technique and duration they advise, as the medicine needs to reach the nasal lining to work well.

Avoid smoke and other triggers that reliably worsen your symptoms. Do not use decongestant nasal sprays for extended periods unless a clinician has specifically advised this, because they can lead to rebound congestion.

Book a clinical review for blockage that continues, repeatedly returns, affects sleep or comes with reduced smell or facial discomfort. Seek urgent medical help for swelling or redness around an eye, changes in vision, severe headache, stiff neck, confusion, high fever, or facial swelling that is rapidly getting worse.

Does my pattern suggest chronic sinusitis, allergy, nasal polyps or another cause? Should I use a saline rinse or a prescribed nasal spray, and how should I use it? Do I need an examination by an ear, nose and throat specialist?