Some Causes of Nasal Congestion and Rhinorrhea
Cause | Suggestive Findings | Diagnostic Approach* |
|---|---|---|
Mucopurulent discharge, often unilateral Red mucosa Sometimes a foul or metallic taste, focal facial pain or headache (often positional), and erythema or tenderness over the maxillary or frontal sinus | Usually clinical examination alone CT considered in patients with diabetes, immunocompromise, or signs of serious illness | |
Watery discharge; sneezing; watery, itchy eyes; pale, boggy nasal mucosa Symptoms often seasonal or with exposure to possible triggers | Clinical examination alone | |
Decongestant overuse | Rebound congestion as decongestant wears off Pale, markedly swollen mucosa | Clinical examination alone |
Unilateral, foul-smelling (sometimes blood-tinged) discharge in a child | Clinical examination alone | |
Recurrent watery discharge; sneezing; red, swollen mucosa No identifiable triggers | Clinical examination alone | |
Watery to mucoid discharge; accompanied by sore throat, malaise, erythematous nasal mucosa | Clinical examination alone | |
* Clinical examination is always done but is mentioned in this column only when that can be the sole means of diagnosis. | ||
CT = computed tomography; URI = upper respiratory infection | ||