What should I do if water cannot flow out when rinsing my nose due to nasal congestion?

Nasal irrigation may fail to drain properly due to either physiological or pathological factors, such as allergic rhinitis, nasal polyps, or sinusitis. Appropriate treatment should be selected based on the underlying cause.

I. Physiological Factors

If personal hygiene is neglected and nasal secretions are not promptly cleared, nasal congestion may occur, which often results in poor drainage during nasal irrigation. This condition typically does not require specific treatment. It is recommended to clean nasal secretions thoroughly to maintain nasal patency.

II. Pathological Factors

1. Allergic Rhinitis: In patients with allergic rhinitis, inflammation irritates the nasal mucosa, causing mucosal congestion and swelling, which can lead to blocked drainage during nasal irrigation. Treatment may include mometasone furoate nasal spray or budesonide nasal spray, used according to medical advice.

2. Nasal Polyps: Large nasal polyps may obstruct the nasal passage, preventing proper drainage during irrigation. Patients are advised to follow medical guidance for treatment using oral medications such as betamethasone tablets or cortisone acetate tablets, or consider endoscopic surgery to remove the polyps.

3. Sinusitis: Patients with sinusitis may experience symptoms such as purulent nasal discharge or nasal obstruction, which can also impair drainage during nasal irrigation. Treatment options include nasal decongestants or antibiotics like Xinyan Shu oral solution or amoxicillin capsules, or surgical interventions such as septoplasty, as directed by a physician.

In addition, conditions such as atrophic rhinitis or chronic rhinitis may also cause poor drainage during nasal irrigation. Medical treatment under professional guidance is recommended.