I have the flu and one of my nostrils is blocked. When I blow inside a tissue nothing comes out as opposed to the other one, and I can't breathe from it. How can I unblock it?
A short-term solution for a blocked nostril associated with a cold or flu is the use of nasal decongestant sprays, based on oxymetazoline every 8 hours, BUT the use of such nasal sprays must not exceed a period of 3-5 days, and only when needed, as these drugs are known to be associated with what we call rebound congestion: they act by reducing the blood flow to the nasal mucosa (the inner lining of the nasal cavity) in order to shrink the swollen and congested mucosa thereby relieving the nasal blockage; the good thing is that they provide immediate relief; the downside is that once the effect of the drug wears off, the blood flow goes back to its previous state, and the blockage recurs very quickly. This side effect grows worse with recurrent use of these drugs, to an extent that some people become dependent on this drug to maintain their nostrils patent.
To play it safe, start by using nasal saline spray, which although not as effective as oxymetazoline in relieving nasal congestion and blockade, it does produce some relief, in addition to humidification and loosening of secretions. Reserve oxymetazoline for the nighttime so you can sleep comfortably.
Sign up or
login to eTobb to get personalized preventive health recommendations and timely reminders.
Annual Checkup
It is recommended that all individuals see a Family Doctor for a full medical examination annually. Adults should get their blood pressure checked (US Preventive Task Force), a flu vaccine (CDC) and more each year.
The American Dental Association recommends dental cleanings for adults at least twice annually. Some stains can only be removed by a professional cleaning.
It’s recommended by the American Academy of Ophthalmology that every adult between the ages of 18 and 80 does an eye examination at least once every two years.
It's recommended by the American Cancer Association that every adult between the age of 20 and 80 does an annual skin screening by a licensed dermatologist.
Take a step forward towards a healthier lifestyle. Stay connected to doctors and stay informed on the latest health topics that matter to you. Sign up to eTobb now!
Premium Question Order Summary 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed
Check if your question is new We may already have an answer for you
You asked for:
Your question is::
Premium Question: Second Opinion
Get help to feel good!
Get answers to your health concerns by asking our certified physicians. Share your medical files for review in eTobb Premium.
Talk to real doctors!
Find the right doctor from our network of over 1000 verified physicians. Check out their eTobb Profiles to learn more about them.
Be proactive, Be healthy!
Your health is our number one priority. We've provided you with a Health Engage meter that tracks how many personalized health recommendations you have completed.
Feedback
premium
Ask Doctors Choose a plan to ask your question
PREMIUM
Ask doctors anonymously
Question can include up to 2000 characters
Receive expert medical advice
Get priority for doctor answers
Attach files (i.e. blood tests, X-rays...)
Choose a specialist of your choice
100% Satisfaction Guaranteed
Your question will not be posted publicly
$6 / Question
Basic
Ask doctors anonymously
Question can include up to 150 characters
Get educational information
Free
Edit Question
مبروك!
شكراً لإهتمامك في الإنضمام إلى إي طب! تم إضافتك بنجاح على قائمة الإنتظار. للحصول على الوصول والدخول المبكر، قم بإبلاغ عائلتك وأصدقائك. كلّما أبلغت عنّا أشخاص أكثر كلما زادت فرصك للحصول على دخول مبكّر.
