Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with Google
Have Swollen And Blocked Nose. Taking Sudafed And Have Loss Of Appetite. How To Get Cure?
Question: I have a very swollen nose/under my eyes area with total blockage from mucus. Sporadic but aggressive sneezing. I am finding it difficult to see fully out of my eyes due to the swelling. These symptoms began Saturday after a party Friday night/early morning. My nose is dripping mucus and I cannot blow anything out or in. I have been taking sudafed for the last two days however since the three days the symptoms began to appear it is getting progressively worse. I have lost my appetite but am eating some fruit and orange juice and water. I am going to make and eat some vegetable soup today. I need to get back to work ASAP.
Hi, thanks for using healthcare magic
Acute sinusitis is caused by inflammation of the sinuses. It is responsible for the swelling that you are experiencing and the increased mucus production. It is commonly associated with rhinitis which are the symptoms of sneezing and dripping from the nose.
It is treated with oral decongestants (the sudafed that you are currently using), topical decongestants such as normal saline drops or otrivine would both be helpful. The otrivine should be used for 3 to 4 days only because if used for longer they can cause rebound congestion. You can use the normal saline as long as you wish. In addition , add steam inhalation (place some mentol crystals in hot water and breath in the steam with a towel over your head, you can use some oils in place of the mentol -tea tree, XXXXXXX peppermint).
The reason that you feel congested and cannot blow anything out is because the turbinates are swollen and this is added to the mucus to cause congestion.
In addition to the above, you may want to consider using an antihistamine which would decrease mucus production- these may be available over the counter.
A topical steroid nasal spray such as nasonex or rhinocort can also help reduce mucus secretion and your other nasal symptoms.
i hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions
Acute sinusitis is caused by inflammation of the sinuses. It is responsible for the swelling that you are experiencing and the increased mucus production. It is commonly associated with rhinitis which are the symptoms of sneezing and dripping from the nose.
It is treated with oral decongestants (the sudafed that you are currently using), topical decongestants such as normal saline drops or otrivine would both be helpful. The otrivine should be used for 3 to 4 days only because if used for longer they can cause rebound congestion. You can use the normal saline as long as you wish. In addition , add steam inhalation (place some mentol crystals in hot water and breath in the steam with a towel over your head, you can use some oils in place of the mentol -tea tree, XXXXXXX peppermint).
The reason that you feel congested and cannot blow anything out is because the turbinates are swollen and this is added to the mucus to cause congestion.
In addition to the above, you may want to consider using an antihistamine which would decrease mucus production- these may be available over the counter.
A topical steroid nasal spray such as nasonex or rhinocort can also help reduce mucus secretion and your other nasal symptoms.
i hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
I am worried about the swelling - can I take anything to bring this down or is it literally the mucus build up? I presume putting ice on it will not make any difference? Also, how long should I wait before seeing about an antibiotic prescription - can you get one for me?
Hi, the antihistamine will help with the swelling. If you start experiencing fever for more than 3 to 4 days, or you use the combination of medication mentioned above for at least 4 to 5 days with no improvement, the mucus becomes foul smelling then antibiotics are necessary.
The cold from the ice may actually worsen the symptoms.
Unfortunately, I would not be able to get a prescription for you if you need it, sorry about that.
Feel free to ask any other questions
The cold from the ice may actually worsen the symptoms.
Unfortunately, I would not be able to get a prescription for you if you need it, sorry about that.
Feel free to ask any other questions
Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
