Nasal congestion: which doctor to see
Congestion from a cold clears within a week. If your nose has been blocked for weeks and drops have become a daily ritual, that is a separate problem worth taking to an ENT doctor: there are many causes, and almost all are fixable.
Common causes
- A lingering cold and sinusitis
- Allergic rhinitis — pollen, dust, animal dander
- Dependence on decongestant drops
- A deviated nasal septum
- Nasal polyps
- Dry indoor air
When to seek urgent help
Do not wait for a scheduled visit if you have any of these signs:
- Congestion with severe facial pain and high fever
- Eyelid or eye area swelling during a sinus infection — see a doctor urgently
- Recurring nosebleeds
- In a child, one blocked nostril with a foul smell — possibly a foreign object
- Vision problems during sinusitis — call 103
Ambulance: 103 (103 from a mobile) · Unified rescue service: 911
Your specialist
ENT specialist
What to bring to the visit
- A timeline: how long it has lasted, whether it is seasonal
- A list of drops and sprays you use, and for how long
- Sinus CT or X-ray results, if you have them
- Information about your allergies
Frequently asked questions
How do I stop using decongestant drops?
This is a common and solvable problem: an ENT doctor will plan a gradual withdrawal and treat the swelling. The key is not to increase the dose any further.
ENT doctor or allergist?
If the congestion is seasonal, with sneezing and itchy eyes, allergy is likely — see an allergist. Otherwise start with an ENT doctor.
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The information on this page is for reference only and does not replace a doctor's consultation. Only a doctor can make a diagnosis in person. If your condition worsens, call 103.