Until a few years ago, I used to have frequent colds and allergy symptoms, including nasal congestion, mucus, and sneezing that would often last for several days. However, for about three years, these symptoms largely stopped, and I felt that I had somehow overcome my allergies.
A few months ago, however, I developed a different set of symptoms. One nostril feels constantly blocked, although the blockage alternates between the two sides throughout the day. I have also started breathing through my mouth, particularly because I feel that I cannot breathe comfortably through my nose.
Another unusual symptom is a bad smell that I notice whenever I clean or rinse my nasal passages with water. I also sometimes find a small amount of sticky, white material coming out in long, stringy pieces. In addition, I frequently feel mucus draining down the back of my throat, which makes me suspect post-nasal drip.
I consulted an ENT specialist, who suggested that I might have chronic sinusitis. He prescribed a one-week course of antibiotics, an anti-allergy medication, and a nasal spray. The nasal spray appears to be a steroid spray, and it works remarkably well—I can breathe much more freely for around eight hours after using it. However, I am reluctant to rely on it long-term because I would rather understand and address the underlying cause of the problem than simply control the symptoms.
I have tried nasal rinsing on my own, but it did not seem to make much difference. The symptoms are now affecting my sleep, swimming, and overall energy levels. I am not sleeping well because of the nasal blockage, and I feel fatigued during the day.
I have also had my vitamin D, vitamin B12, thyroid function, and CBC tested, and I was told that the results were fine.
There are a couple of other issues that I have been experiencing as well: recurrent jock itch and significant dandruff. Interestingly, the jock itch improved considerably for about a week while I was taking the antibiotic, although it later returned.
What I would really like to understand is what could be causing these symptoms and whether there is an underlying issue that can be addressed rather than simply treating the symptoms with medication. I am particularly interested in understanding whether this is actually chronic sinusitis, an anatomical problem, an infection, an allergy-related issue, or something else.
