My sinuses have been bunged up for years. I'm constantly blowing my nose. I use nasal decongestants but those don't seem to help. What should I do?
Dr Philippa Kaye answers: Nasal decongestants should not be used for more than a few days. Otherwise, these drugs can trigger uncomfortable side effects.
Bunged sinuses are usually triggered by a condition called rhinitis. This is where the lining of the nose is inflamed, leading to an overproduction of mucus.
The problem is often set off by a cold. However, when this is the cause, the problem tends to resolve itself in a week or two.
Rhinitis can be caused by allergies, such as to dust or pollen. Irritants, like smoke or perfume, are linked to the problem.
Growths inside the nose - called polyps - can also lead to these symptoms.
Patients with this chronic problem should ask their GP for a scan of the nose, to look for signs of these growths. There are drugs that patients can take to reduce the inflammation caused by polyps.
Even if the cause isn't polyps, there are other steps.
Nasal decongestants should not be used for more than a few days, says Dr Philippa Kaye. Otherwise, these drugs can trigger uncomfortable side effects.
One of the most important is working out what could be causing the problem. So, for example, it might be worth taking a daily antihistamine tablet - which combats allergies - to see if the symptoms improve.
Patients who use perfumes might consider stopping using the fragrance for a week to see there are any changes to their symptoms.
It's also important to stop smoking and also limit time spent in dry environments like heavily air-conditioned rooms.
One common mistake many patients make is overusing nasal decongestant sprays. These drugs, while sometimes effective, are not designed for long-term use. This can lead to a condition called rhinitis medicamentosa, where the medication itself starts to trigger the symptoms.
Instead, patients should use salt sprays, also known as saline sprays, that are designed to clean out the nose and reduce inflammation.
Saline rinses, a saltwater solution, can also be helpful - particularly if allergies are the cause.
Many people find that placing a humidifier in the bedroom can be helpful. So too can avoiding eating late and keeping hydrated.
Patients are advised to wash their bedding regularly and consider purchasing allergen-proof mattress, pillow and duvet protectors to limit the risk of dust allergies flaring up rhinitis.
Likewise, regular vacuuming and dusting can also help.
GP, author and broadcaster Dr Philippa Kaye