Prolonged Nasal Congestion Over 10 Days May Indicate Sinusitis, Experts Advise

Medical experts warn that nasal blockage lasting more than ten days is not a simple cold and can signal underlying sinusitis or allergic rhinitis. Warning signs include facial or dental pain, fever above 38 °C, swelling around the eyes, and severe headache. In such cases, a consultation with an ear‑nose‑throat (ENT) specialist is recommended for possible medication or other treatment plans.

Supportive home measures such as staying well‑hydrated, using a humidifier, and performing saline nasal rinses can provide relief, but long‑term use of nasal decongestant sprays should be avoided because they may cause rebound congestion. Identifying and managing the root cause—whether infection, allergy, or structural issue—is essential for lasting improvement.