SymptomsHead, eyes, ears, nose and throat

Blocked nose and sinusitis: which doctor should I see?

A blocked nose gets in the way of breathing, sleep and the sense of smell. When it comes with pain in the forehead or around the eyes and thick mucus, it may be sinusitis. Here you will learn what may be behind it, when it is urgent and which specialist to see.

Book a specialist

When it is urgent

Swelling or redness around the eye, double vision or impaired vision.
A very severe headache in the forehead, or swelling of the forehead.
A stiff neck, confusion, weakness in an arm or leg, or difficulty speaking.

With these signs, seek emergency help — call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department.

Call 112

What it may mean

A cold — a runny and blocked nose that passes within days.
Sinusitis — pain and pressure in the forehead, cheeks or around the eyes, thick mucus and sometimes a fever.
Allergy — sneezing, watery mucus and itching, often seasonal or on contact with dust and animals.
A deviated septum or polyps — a blockage that does not pass, often on one side.
Long use of decongestant nasal drops or sprays — the blockage returns as soon as you stop them.

Which specialist

ENT (Otorhinolaryngologist) in Sofia — 14 doctors and services ENT (Otorhinolaryngologist) — all doctors

ENT (Otorhinolaryngologist) in Sofia

How to prepare for the visit

Note how long you have had the complaints, how many times a year they return and whether they are linked to a season or a particular place. Bring earlier test results and allergy tests, and a list of the medicines and sprays you use.

A specialist visit paid by НЗОК (NHIF) usually needs a referral from your GP; a referral is valid for 30 days. A paid visit is possible without one.

Frequently asked questions

When is sinusitis a reason for a visit?

When the complaints last more than a week or keep coming back. Book a visit without delay if you have a high fever with severe facial pain, feel very unwell, the complaints get worse or you have a weakened immune system.

Can I use nasal sprays for a long time?

Some nasal sprays are not suitable for long use. Ask a doctor.

ENT doctor or allergist?

With facial pain, thick mucus or a constant blockage the first specialist is an ENT doctor. With sneezing and a runny nose linked to a season, dust or animals, an allergist.

This information does not replace a visit to a doctor.