A history is followed by an examination which will include a nasal endoscopy. This will result in an accurate working diagnosis and will help you decide whether further imaging is required. Plain x-rays such as a lateral neck is not very useful but a CT scan and an MRI may assist. Obviously, a biopsy with histology to correctly identify a tumour or a polyp is sometimes necessary. Medical treatment is according to a working diagnosis and usually involves cortico steroid and saline sprays. Systemic antibiotics and cortisone may be given. Anti-histamines may assist in some cases. In stertor adults, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) or other prostheses may assist. Surgical management will be according to your diagnosis and may be an adenotonsillectomy, removal of polyps with or without sinus surgery, a biopsy with tumour or foreign body removal and correction of the fractured nose. The septum can be straightened in a septoplasty and turbinates can be reduced with a turbinoplasty.
Nasal Blockage – Investigations and Treatment
