Nose and sinus issues are among the most common reasons for outpatient visits in the United States, with more than 20 million people seeking care each year. Many of these visits are due to nasal congestion, sinus pressure, inflammation, and infections. Others are for recurring nosebleeds, allergic rhinitis, and structural issues like a deviated septum.

Although these problems can affect anyone, they often have different causes, require varying treatments, and may need care from specialists such as ENT doctors, allergists, or pulmonologists. Below is a comprehensive look at common nose and sinus disorders, what causes them, and how they are diagnosed and treated.

Types of Nose and Sinus Problems

Sinus and nasal conditions can be categorized by the affected structures or the nature and duration of the symptoms. Some conditions are acute and temporary, while others are chronic and may require long-term management.

Allergic rhinitis

Allergic rhinitis occurs when your immune system overreacts to allergens like pollen, pet dander, or dust. This condition is also known as hay fever, especially when it results from seasonal triggers like tree or grass pollen.

common symptoms include

  • Runny or stuffy nose

  • Sneezing and itchy nose

  • Watery or itchy eyes

  • Sore throat

  • Clogged ears

  • Trouble smelling

  • Puffy eyes and dark circles

  • Fatigue and irritability

Deviated septum

A deviated septum happens when the wall that separates the two nasal passages is shifted to one side. This can make one nostril smaller and restrict airflow, making breathing difficult.

possible symptoms include

  • Mouth breathing

  • Frequent nosebleeds

  • Recurrent sinus infections

  • Difficulty breathing through one or both nostrils

  • Noisy breathing in children

Nasal polyps

Nasal polyps are soft, noncancerous growths that form in the lining of your nasal passages or sinuses. Small polyps may not cause any symptoms, but larger ones can block airflow and lead to frequent infections.

possible symptoms include

  • Feeling of nasal blockage

  • Runny nose

  • Frequent sneezing

  • Loss of taste or smell

  • Facial pain or pressure

  • Snoring and sleep disturbances

Nosebleeds

Nosebleeds, or epistaxis, are very common, especially in children and older adults. Most are anterior nosebleeds, which originate from the front part of the nose and are usually harmless. However, posterior nosebleeds, which involve larger blood vessels deeper in the nasal cavity, can be more serious.

typical signs

  • Bleeding from one or both nostrils

  • Blood dripping into the throat

  • Difficulty stopping the bleeding

  • Recurrent episodes without a clear cause

Sinusitis

Sinusitis is inflammation of the sinuses, typically due to infection. It may be acute, subacute, or chronic, depending on how long the symptoms last. Acute sinusitis is often triggered by a cold, while chronic sinusitis may result from ongoing inflammation, allergies, or structural issues.

symptoms of sinusitis include

  • Sinus pain or facial pressure

  • Congestion and thick nasal mucus

  • Bad breath or loss of smell

  • Postnasal drip

  • Toothache and headache

  • Fever or fatigue

Common Causes and Risk Factors

Your sinuses and nasal passages are designed to protect your respiratory system by filtering, moistening, and warming the air you breathe. However, several factors can interfere with their function, leading to health problems.

Allergic rhinitis

This condition often results from exposure to airborne allergens. The most common trigger is pollen, especially in dry, windy weather. Other allergens may include:

  • Pet dander

  • Mold spores

  • Dust mites

  • Certain foods

family history plays a role
If allergies run in your family, you may be more likely to develop allergic rhinitis.

Deviated septum

A deviated septum may be present at birth or result from injury, such as a sports accident or facial trauma. As the deviation worsens over time, breathing issues may develop.

Nasal polyps

The exact cause of nasal polyps is not always known. Chronic inflammation due to asthma, allergies, or infections is thought to be a contributing factor.

increased risk in people with

  • Chronic sinusitis

  • Asthma

  • Sensitivity to aspirin

  • Cystic fibrosis

Nosebleeds

Nosebleeds may occur for many reasons, including structural problems, environmental conditions, or underlying health issues.

common triggers include

  • Dry air or cold weather

  • Allergies or frequent nose blowing

  • Use of blood thinners

  • Trauma or injury

  • Chemical exposure

Sinusitis

Sinusitis is most often caused by viruses but can also result from bacterial or fungal infections. It may follow a cold or flu and is more likely in people with weakened immune systems or structural nasal problems.

risk factors for sinusitis include

  • Smoking or secondhand smoke exposure

  • Allergic rhinitis

  • Nasal polyps or deviated septum

  • Frequent air travel or altitude changes

  • Children in daycare

  • Respiratory conditions like asthma or cystic fibrosis

Diagnosis of Nose and Sinus Conditions

Healthcare providers use a variety of methods to diagnose nasal and sinus disorders, depending on your symptoms and medical history.

common diagnostic tools include

  • Physical examination of the nose and throat

  • Allergy skin testing

  • Nasal endoscopy

  • CT or MRI scans

  • Blood tests such as CBC or IgE levels

  • Ciliary function tests

  • Toxicology screenings

  • Blood clotting tests (PT or PTT)

These tests help determine the underlying cause of your symptoms and rule out other possible conditions.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the specific diagnosis and severity of symptoms. While some conditions resolve on their own, others require medication, lifestyle changes, or surgical intervention.

Allergic rhinitis

Managing allergic rhinitis involves avoiding triggers and using medications to relieve symptoms.

common treatments include

  • Antihistamines (oral or nasal spray)

  • Nasal corticosteroids

  • Decongestants (short-term use)

  • Leukotriene receptor antagonists

  • Allergy shots (immunotherapy)

  • Cromolyn sodium nasal spray

  • Eye drops for itchy or watery eyes

Deviated septum

For mild cases, medications like decongestants or antihistamines may improve breathing. If symptoms persist, a surgical procedure called septoplasty may be recommended to straighten the septum.

Nasal polyps

Initial treatment typically involves corticosteroid sprays or oral medications to shrink the polyps. If medical treatment is unsuccessful, surgical removal may be necessary.

long-term management may include

  • Managing underlying allergies or asthma

  • Preventing recurrent infections

  • Regular follow-ups with an ENT specialist

Nosebleeds

Most nosebleeds can be treated at home by pinching the nose and leaning forward. Apply a cold compress to the bridge of the nose to slow bleeding.

seek medical attention if

  • Bleeding lasts over 20 minutes

  • It happens frequently

  • It occurs after an injury

  • You are taking blood-thinning medication

Severe nosebleeds may require nasal packing or cauterization.

Sinusitis

Most acute cases are viral and do not require antibiotics. Symptom relief can be achieved with:

  • Decongestants

  • Saline nasal irrigation

  • Antihistamines (if caused by allergies)

  • OTC pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen

Chronic sinusitis may require:

  • Steroid nasal sprays

  • Antibiotics for bacterial infections

  • Allergy management

  • Surgery if symptoms persist

Prevention Tips

Although you can’t always avoid nasal or sinus conditions, you can reduce your risk with proactive measures:

  • Use a humidifier in dry environments

  • Avoid allergens and irritants

  • Stop smoking

  • Wash your hands frequently

  • Stay hydrated

  • Get annual flu shots

  • Rinse nasal passages with saline solution

  • Manage allergies and respiratory conditions

Possible Complications

While many sinus and nasal problems resolve with proper care, complications may occur in untreated or chronic cases.

potential complications include

  • Abscess formation

  • Meningitis

  • Orbital cellulitis (eye socket infection)

  • Bone infection (osteomyelitis)

  • Sleep disorders due to mouth breathing

  • Recurrent nosebleeds

Seek medical attention if your symptoms worsen or do not improve with treatment.

A Quick Summary

Nose and sinus disorders such as allergic rhinitis, sinusitis, nasal polyps, nosebleeds, and deviated septum are common and often manageable. They may result from allergens, infections, or structural abnormalities. Timely diagnosis and treatment can reduce symptoms and prevent complications. Speak with a healthcare provider if you have persistent or bothersome nasal or sinus symptoms.