Nasal Congestion without Allergies...any clue?

[jolijuli23]

I've had nasal congestion for about 4-5 months now straight. Either one of both nostrals are completely plugged all day, every day. The congestion will switch randomly from one nostral to the other or both will be plugged at the same time.

My doctor had me try allergy medications like Zyrtec, Allegra, Clariton and decongestents. Nothing worked! I was sent to an allergist who did both a skin test and a blood test. My results were that I wasn't allergic to ANYTHING! Because of my test results and the fact that I am not sneezing of have itchy eyes my allergist sent me back to my doctor.

She recommended I try a sinus-rinse to see if I could flush out everything and to try flonase. Both did nothing and seemed like a waste.

Now my nose is still congested, but extremely dry and I've had blood in my tissue when I blow my nose. Snot is slightly green, when not a little bloody.

They didn't think it was sinusitis since I don't have pressure or a constant headache. Any clues as to what's going on??

I'm seeing an ENT soon, any recommendations on tests or questions I should ask?

Your help is appreciated~

[jcjwillis]

It sounds like you have a sinus infection your doctor should be able to give you some antibiodics to clear up your problem.

Hope this helps!

[jolijuli23]

Both my doctor and the allergist didn't think it was a sinus infection since I don't have a headache or feel pressure.

[Misty800]

Green snot is definitely an indication of infection of the sinuses. You do not always have a headache or pressure with a sinus infection.

Irrigating sinuses with salt/soda solution will help clean the sinuses. My doctor approved the following:

1 cup boiling water
1/2 teaspoon plain salt
1/2 teaspoon baking soda

Dissolve salt and soda in the boiling water, stir until dissolved.

Strain thru a clean paper coffee filter.

Put in clean nasal spray bottles.

Allow to "COOL" before using.

If solution is too drying, add 1 or 2 drops glycerin to the mixture.

To use, lay on your back with head hanging off the bed.
Squirt a few squirts into each nostril, turn head slowly side to side, massage cheeks, say KKKKKK while getting up to prevent solution from running down your throat. Blow gently as needed. Do this twice a day.

You may still need an antibiotic to clear the infection.

Remember, yellow and green snot indicates infection.

[bethsheba]

I had a congestion and a feeling of exhaustion for over two months before going in to see a doctor. He diagnosed sinus infection, gave me 10 days of antibiotics, and I was back to my old self when I finished the medication. Over the two months I was sick, I never had a headache, nor did I feel pressure in my head...only congestion and exhaustion.

I agree with the other posters.

Bethsheba