How to clear a blocked nose

A blocked nose is a common ailment. While many cases resolve on their own, persistent or severe symptoms may require medical attention.

Mr Okechukwu Okonkwo, leading consultant ENT surgeon, provides an expert insight into the various causes of a blocked nose, how to treat it effectively, and whether surgery is ever required.

What causes a blocked nose?

A blocked nose can occur when the tissues lining the nasal passages become swollen, usually due to inflammation, allergies, and nasal polyps. Sometimes, a bend in the nasal septum (septal deviation) or bones of the nose can contribute.

The causes of nasal congestion can vary, including:

• The common cold or viral infections, such as COVID-19
• Hay fever, also known as allergic rhinitis
• Sinus infections (also known as sinusitis)
• A deviated septum
• Nasal polyps

When should I seek medical attention for a blocked nose?

While most cases of a blocked nose resolve on their own or with simple over-the-counter medications, you should consider seeking medical advice if:

• Your blocked nose is one sided.
• Your blocked nose is impacting on your quality of life e.g. your sleeping, concentration, sense of smell.
• Your blocked nose persists for more than 10 days and is associated with a fever and/or severe pain.
• You have had the following symptoms for over 3 months - a blocked nose accompanied by a runny nose and/or loss of sense of smell and/or facial pain.
• You have had trauma causing your nasal blockage.
• Your blocked nose is associated with symptoms such as pain, headaches, visual problems, bleeding, neck lumps, weight loss, or dental issues.

How to treat a blocked nose

The treatment for a blocked nose depends on its underlying cause. There are several effective remedies, ranging from home remedies to medications to surgery.

Home remedies

For mild cases of a blocked nose, home remedies can often provide significant relief.

For example, staying hydrated helps to thin mucus, making it easier to clear the nasal passages. Inhaling steam, using a humidifier, or taking a warm shower can help loosen mucus and reduce swelling. Saline nasal sprays can be used regularly to clear irritants and keep the nasal passages clear.

Avoiding known allergens or irritants can help reduce symptoms, especially if allergies are the cause of the blocked nose.

Medications

Over-the-counter nasal steroid sprays can be of use as well as nasal decongestants. However, these should not be used for more than a week without consulting a doctor.

Antihistamines are helpful in cases where allergies are the cause of congestion.

If these over-the-counter treatments are ineffective, your ENT specialist may prescribe stronger medications. These can include prescription-strength nasal sprays with corticosteroids, which help reduce inflammation and are especially useful for chronic conditions such as allergies, sinusitis, or nasal polyps. In cases of bacterial sinus infections, antibiotics may be needed.

Is surgery ever required for a blocked nose?

Surgery may be necessary in some cases, especially when structural issues or chronic conditions are involved.

Septoplasty

If a deviated septum is causing significant breathing difficulties, surgery may be recommended to straighten the septum. A septoplasty is a procedure that corrects the alignment of the nasal septum, improving airflow and reducing congestion.

Endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS)

Surgery may be necessary to remove large or obstructive nasal polyps. This is keyhole surgery done through the nose with a very thin camera to remove polyps and/or open the sinuses. There are no scars.

Endoscopic sinus surgery is also good for improving the drainage of the sinuses and opening the nasal airways, improving breathing and reducing recurrent infections.

Septorhinoplasty

A deviated septum and nasal bones can cause significant breathing difficulties as well as a change in your appearance. This can sometimes be because of trauma.

A septorhinoplasty corrects the alignment of the septum and nasal bones, improving the appearance of your nose as well as airflow through the nose.

If you would like to book an appointment with Mr Okechukwu Okonkwo, head on over to his Top Doctors profile today.