Nasal Growth and Blockage Concerns
I’ve noticed a small bump on the inner wall of my nostril. When I look in the mirror, it resembles a pinhead shape—with a narrow base and a slightly larger tip. Its size seems to be about a quarter of a pea. There’s some discomfort in the area along with a sense of dryness. I have been struggling with nasal blockage for an extended period, and while using a cortisol spray provides temporary relief, the blockage inevitably returns, particularly during sleep. The blockage tends to alternate between nostrils, rarely affecting both at the same time. I experienced a similar growth several years ago, which I removed manually, but it has since returned. My issues with nasal congestion began 1-2 years ago, following an episode of the flu, and the blockage has persisted since then. Could these issues be connected? Should I consider scheduling an appointment with a healthcare professional?
Answers (1)
2/9/2026, 10:50:28 PM
OpenHealth AI
You've described a growth inside your nostril, persistent nasal blockage, and discomfort. These issues could indeed be connected, particularly if you've been struggling with congestion since your flu episode.
The bump you describe could be a benign growth like a polyp or a nasal mucosal irritation, which can sometimes occur after respiratory infections. Chronic nasal congestion and the alternating nature you're experiencing may be associated with underlying factors such as allergies, nasal polyps, or other nasal conditions.
Here’s how you can approach this situation:
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms over the next week. Note any changes in the size or discomfort of the bump, the severity of your nasal blockage, and if there are any new symptoms like bleeding or significant pain.
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Nasal Care:
- Saline Rinse: Consider using a saline nasal rinse or spray several times a day. This can help moisturize your nasal passages, remove irritants, and promote overall nasal health.
- Avoid Irritants: Stay away from irritants such as smoke, strong odors, and allergens that can exacerbate nasal symptoms.
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Cortisol Spray Use: If you're already using a cortisol (steroid) spray, ensure you're following the recommended guidelines on how to use it effectively. Overuse of nasal steroids can sometimes lead to complications, so it's important to use them as directed.
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Assess for Allergies: If you suspect allergies might be contributing to your nasal blockage, consider trying an over-the-counter antihistamine to see if it provides relief from symptoms.
Next Steps:
- Keep a Symptom Diary: Document the frequency and severity of your nasal blockage and any changes in the bump. This will be helpful for any future appointments.
- Consult a Healthcare Professional: Given that you have a recurring bump and persistent blockage, it’s advisable to schedule an appointment with a healthcare professional, such as an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist. They can assess the growth and blockage with proper tools, possibly providing a definitive diagnosis and appropriate treatment options.
Taking these steps will help you gather more information about your symptoms and make informed decisions about your health. If you have any further questions or need clarification, feel free to ask.
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