Blocked Nose for Weeks — Is It Allergy, Sinusitis or Something Else?
A blocked nose can make breathing through the nose difficult, disturb sleep and affect concentration during the day. Some people experience congestion during a cold, while others have symptoms that continue for several weeks or repeatedly return.
Persistent nasal blockage can have several causes, including allergies, inflammation of the sinuses, nasal polyps or structural problems inside the nose. The correct treatment depends on the underlying cause, so repeated self-medication may not solve the problem.
Understanding the differences between common causes can help patients decide when to seek an assessment from an ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist.
At Q1 Hospitals, comprehensive spine care focuses on understanding each patient’s individual condition before deciding on a treatment approach. The hospital’s Spine Care Department brings together spine surgeons, neurologists, radiologists, rehabilitation specialists, physiotherapists, anaesthesiologists, and other healthcare professionals to support coordinated evaluation and management.
What Causes a Blocked Nose?
Nasal blockage occurs when the lining inside the nose becomes swollen or the normal flow of air is obstructed.
1. Allergic rhinitis:
Allergic rhinitis occurs when the immune system reacts to substances such as dust mites, pollen, mould or animal allergens.
Common symptoms include:
- Sneezing.
- Itching in the nose or eyes.
- A runny nose.
- Nasal congestion.
- Watery eyes.
Symptoms may vary depending on exposure to the allergen.
2. Sinusitis: Sinusitis involves inflammation of the tissues lining the sinuses. It may develop after a viral respiratory infection and can sometimes be associated with bacterial infection or other inflammatory conditions.
Possible symptoms include nasal blockage, discharge, facial pressure, reduced sense of smell and headache. The duration and pattern of symptoms help guide the assessment.
Coloured nasal mucus alone does not prove that a bacterial infection is present.
3. Nasal polyps: Nasal polyps are soft growths associated with chronic inflammation inside the nose or sinuses. They may contribute to persistent blockage, reduced smell and difficulty breathing through the nose.
They are not the same as cancer, but ongoing symptoms need assessment to establish the cause.
4. A deviated nasal septum: The nasal septum separates the two sides of the nose. If it is significantly displaced, airflow may be restricted, sometimes more on one side than the other.
A deviated septum can be present from birth or follow an injury.
5. Other causes: Viral infections, irritants, certain medicines and overuse of some decongestant nasal sprays can also contribute to nasal congestion.
A persistent blockage should not automatically be treated as an infection without considering other possibilities.
In some cases, pain may also be related to muscular or functional issues. This is why simply treating the pain without understanding its source may not provide lasting relief.
A detailed evaluation helps doctors determine whether the pain is primarily related to the spine, surrounding muscles and joints, nerve involvement, or another medical concern.
How Can You Tell the Difference?
Symptoms can provide clues, but they do not confirm a diagnosis.
- Allergy: Sneezing, itching and watery discharge may be prominent.
- Sinus inflammation: Congestion may occur with facial pressure, discharge or reduced smell.
- Structural blockage: One-sided or persistent obstruction may suggest an anatomical problem.
- Nasal polyps: Long-lasting blockage and reduced smell may occur.
Several conditions can coexist. An examination may be needed to determine which factors are responsible.
How Is Persistent Nasal Blockage Diagnosed?
An ENT specialist may ask about symptom duration, allergies, previous infections, medicines, smell changes and whether one or both sides of the nose are affected.
The examination may include looking inside the nose. Nasal endoscopy or imaging may be recommended in selected cases, especially when symptoms persist or a structural problem or chronic sinus condition is suspected.
Not every patient requires a scan. Investigations are selected according to the clinical findings.
Q1 Hospitals also has a dedicated Neuro Sciences department, supporting the evaluation and management of neurological conditions involving the nervous system, including the spinal cord. This multidisciplinary approach can be valuable when symptoms involve both the spine and nerves.
Treatment Options for a Blocked Nose
1. Saline nasal rinses: Saline sprays or rinses may help remove mucus and irritants. If using a nasal irrigation device, use sterile, distilled or previously boiled and cooled water, and keep the device clean.
2. Allergy management: When allergies are responsible, reducing exposure to relevant triggers and using appropriate allergy treatment may help. A clinician or pharmacist can advise which medicines are suitable.
3. Nasal corticosteroid sprays: These sprays reduce inflammation and may be useful for allergic rhinitis, nasal polyps or selected chronic nasal conditions. They work best when used correctly and consistently according to professional advice.
4. Decongestants:Some decongestants may provide short-term relief, but certain nasal decongestant sprays can worsen congestion if used for longer than recommended. Follow product instructions and seek advice if you need them repeatedly.
5. Treatment for sinusitis:Treatment depends on the cause and duration of symptoms. Antibiotics are not necessary for every episode of sinusitis because many cases are viral or inflammatory.
6. Surgery when appropriate: Selected patients with structural obstruction or nasal polyps that do not respond adequately to appropriate medical treatment may be offered surgery. The decision depends on the diagnosis, severity and response to other treatments.
Practical Tips for Managing Nasal Congestion
- Avoid smoke and other irritants.
- Identify and reduce exposure to relevant allergens.
- Drink adequate fluids.
- Use saline products safely.
- Follow medicine instructions carefully.
- Avoid prolonged, unsupervised use of decongestant sprays.
When Should You Consult an ENT Specialist?
Arrange an assessment if nasal blockage persists for several weeks, repeatedly returns, affects sleep, reduces your sense of smell or does not improve with suitable treatment.
Seek prompt medical assessment if symptoms are associated with persistent one-sided blockage, repeated nosebleeds or unusual discharge. Swelling around the eye, changes in vision, severe headache or significant facial swelling require urgent evaluation.
Conclusion
A blocked nose that lasts for weeks can result from allergies, sinus inflammation, nasal polyps, structural changes or other conditions. Identifying the cause is important because the most suitable treatment differs from one condition to another.
Q1 Hospitals can be considered for assessment of persistent nasal blockage and discussion of appropriate ENT treatment options.
Book your appointment now
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