Months of nasal blockage may relate to allergy, a deviated septum, enlarged turbinates, polyps or prolonged decongestant use. You do not need to wait 12 weeks before seeking assessment.
Whether blockage is one-sided or bilateral, discharge, smell, injury and spray use help distinguish causes. Persistent one-sided blockage or bloody discharge needs early review. Examination may include endoscopy and selected imaging. Medicines may help inflammatory causes; surgery can be discussed for structural problems and continuing symptoms. Do not delay assessment by escalating a spray dose.
Diagnosis uses symptom duration and examination; endoscopy and CT are selected when needed. Saline, appropriate nasal medicines and sometimes surgery may form an individual plan. Not every sinus complaint needs antibiotics.
Seek emergency care for swelling around the eye, reduced vision, severe unusual headache or neurological symptoms. Use sterile, distilled or previously boiled and cooled water in nasal irrigation devices.
This information does not replace an individual consultation. Diagnosis and treatment depend on a medical assessment.
Consultation and treatment