24. Stuffy nose/Nasal Congestion

Question 1

Why causes stuffy nose?

Answer 1

Pollen
Infections
Allergies
Acute or chronic sinusitis
Common cold
Overuse of Decongestant nasal spray
Influenza (flu)
Stress
Tobacco smoke

Question 2

Patient’s Symptoms?

Answer 2

First few days runny nose then become stuffy nose
Discharge thick, yellow or greenish mucus
RUNNY or STUFFY nose, feels like blocked mostly one/both side face under eyes.
Mild headache, pressure around your eyes, cheeks, nose or forehead that worsens when bending over
Face feels full, worse when leaning forward
How about covid is it checked ask the patient?

Question 3

Can a patient who is on Anxiety and thyroid medications can they take OTC drugs for stuffy nose?

Answer 3

Check interection

Question 4

Treatment?

Answer 4

Saline nasal spray: rinse nasal passages. It treats dryness inside nasal passages. It helps to add moisture inside the nose to dissolve and soften thick or crusty mucus. In babies and young children cannot blow their noses, make the mucus easier to remove with a nasal bulb syringe.

Corticosteroids nasal. These nasal sprays help prevent and treat inflammation. Examples fluticasone, budesonide.

Allergy medications. If due to allergies, using citirizine tablet.

OTC pain relievers, such ibuprofen paracetamol.

Red flag situation refer for antibiotic: High fever longer for 3 days, Purulent discharge, Symptoms lasting longer than 7 days. Worsening symptoms after initial improvement. History of recurrent sinusitis.

Question 5

Self Care?

Answer 5

Rest
Hydration with warm water
Warm compress on face
Saline spray
Avoid smoking and polluted air
Avoid cold and flu like patients
Keep allergy under control
Always stay up to date on vaccination.
Avoid pollen