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Nasal Obstruction

A common complaint of many individuals with sinus problems is a ' blocked nose .' This feeling of blockage can result from sinus infections. In addition, there are a number of things that anatomically block the nose and can lead to sinus problems. Blockage may occur when the lining of the nose swells, or when there is a deformity of the cartilaginous or bony structures that make up the framework of the nose.

Causes

There are many potential causes for nasal obstruction. Some of the most common causes are nasal allergies, deviation of the nasal septum (the partition in the middle of the nose on the inside), sinus or nasal infection, or a number of other potential causes.

Signs and symptoms

• Obstruction of air through the nose.
• Crooked nose (with deviated septum, sometimes).
• Impaired sense of smell.
• Nasal discharge.
• Facial pain (sometimes).
• Headaches (sometimes).
• Frequent sneezing.
• Wheezing (sometimes) with allergic rhinitis.

Diagnosis

• Medical history and exam by a doctor.
• X-rays of the face.
• Allergy skin tests.

Treatment

Medical Treatment

• Doctor's care for desensitization procedures for allergic disorders.
• Surgery for deviated septum and polyps.

Medication

• To reduce the body's allergic response, your doctor may prescribe: antihistamines; decongestants; corticosteroid eye drops or nasal spray; corticosteroid tablets (severe, cases only); or cromolyn nasal spray. These medications relieve symptoms, but they don't cure hay fever.
• Densensitization injections may be helpful for known allergens.
• If surgery is necessary, your doctor may prescribe pain relievers and antibiotics to prevent or treat post-surgical infection.

Home Treatment

For allergic rhinitis and nasal polyps, eliminate as many allergens in your environment as possible. Prepare your bedroom as follows:

• Empty the room of furniture, rugs or carpet, and drapes or curtains.
• Clean the walls, woodwork and floors with a damp mop. Wax the floor.
• Take the mattress and box springs outside and vacuum or clean them. Cover the box springs, mattress and pillows with plastic covers.
• Use only rugs that can be washed weekly.
• Use bedclothes that can be washed often, such as cotton sheets, washable mattress pads and synthetic fiber blankets. Don't use chenille bedspreads, quilts or comforters.
• Use wood or plastic chairs-not stuffed chairs. Use plastic curtains, if possible. Dust them daily.
• Keep windows and doors closed.
• Don't handle objects that are very dusty, such as books, stored clothing or stuffed toys.
• Remove all pets (except fish) from the house.

Prevention

Most forms of obstruction cannot be prevented. To minimize obstruction caused by allergic reactions:

• Obtain medical treatment for underlying allergies with desensitization procedures.
• Install an air-purification unit in your home's heating and air-conditioning system.