A blocked nose sounds like a small problem until you live with it. Poor sleep, mouth breathing, headaches, a constant drip at the back of the throat. In Gurgaon, the dust, construction and winter smog make it worse for many people every year.
Dr. Sahil Kapoor treats nose and sinus problems at Ace ENT Care, 238, Sector 5, Gurugram. He has trained in endoscopic sinus surgery and septal correction, and in allergy diagnosis and immunotherapy. As a sinus specialist in Gurgaon, most of his nose patients are treated with medicines. Surgery is advised only when medicines have been given a fair chance and have not worked.
Common nose and sinus conditions
- Acute sinusitis: often follows a cold. Facial pain, a blocked nose and thick discharge for more than ten days, or symptoms that get better and then worse again.
- Chronic sinusitis: symptoms that last more than 12 weeks, such as blockage, facial pressure, reduced smell and post-nasal drip.
- Deviated nasal septum: a bend in the wall between the two nostrils that blocks one or both sides. See septoplasty in Gurgaon.
- Nasal polyps: soft, painless swellings inside the nose and sinuses, often linked to allergy or asthma. They cause blockage and loss of smell.
- Allergic rhinitis: sneezing, watery discharge and itching, triggered by dust, pollen or pets. See allergy treatment.
- Turbinate hypertrophy: swelling of the natural ridges inside the nose.
- Nosebleeds (epistaxis): common in dry weather and in people on blood thinners.
Symptoms that need an ENT check
- A blocked nose on one side that does not go away
- Facial pain or pressure with fever, or swelling around the eyes
- Loss of smell for more than a few weeks
- Repeated sinus infections in a year
- Frequent nosebleeds, or bleeding from one side only
- Snoring and mouth breathing at night
Swelling around the eye, double vision or a severe headache with a sinus infection needs urgent attention.
How sinus problems are diagnosed
The first step is a careful history and a nasal examination. In most cases, a diagnostic nasal endoscopy is done in the clinic. A thin camera is passed into the nose after spraying a numbing medicine. It takes a few minutes, is not painful, and shows the septum, turbinates, sinus openings and any polyps or pus.
A CT scan of the paranasal sinuses is advised when chronic sinusitis is suspected or when surgery is being considered. An allergy test may be suggested if the symptoms point to allergy.
Treatment options
Medicines first. For most people, blocked nose treatment starts with saline nasal rinses, steroid nasal sprays used correctly, antihistamines where allergy is involved, and antibiotics only when a bacterial infection is likely. Many patients don't get relief from a steroid spray because they use it the wrong way. The technique is shown in the clinic.
Avoid decongestant sprays for long periods. Sprays like xylometazoline give quick relief, but using them for more than five to seven days can cause rebound blockage and dependence. This is a common problem we see.
Surgery when needed. If symptoms continue despite proper medical treatment, surgery may be advised:
- FESS (functional endoscopic sinus surgery): opens blocked sinus pathways and removes polyps through the nose, with no cut on the face.
- Septoplasty: deviated nasal septum treatment that straightens the septum to improve airflow.
- Turbinate reduction: reduces swollen turbinates.
Nasal polyps treatment
Small polyps often shrink with steroid sprays and short courses of oral steroids. Large polyps, or polyps that keep coming back, usually need endoscopic removal. Polyps can return after surgery, so long-term use of nasal sprays and regular follow-up are important.
Recovery after nose surgery
Most nose and sinus surgeries are done under general anaesthesia, and patients go home the same day or the next day. Expect a blocked nose and some discharge for one to two weeks. Saline rinses help healing. Most people return to desk work within a week. A few follow-up visits are needed for endoscopic cleaning of the nose.
Simple tips for Gurgaon's air
- Do saline rinses after long exposure to dust or smoke.
- Wear a well-fitting mask on high-pollution days.
- Keep indoor air moist in winter, but clean humidifiers regularly.
- Don't self-medicate with decongestant sprays for weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is sinus surgery painful?
Most patients describe a heavy, blocked feeling for a few days rather than sharp pain. Regular painkillers are usually enough.
Will my sinus problem come back after surgery?
Surgery improves drainage, but conditions like allergy and polyps can still cause symptoms. Nasal sprays, rinses and follow-up reduce the chances of the problem returning.
Is nasal endoscopy safe?
Yes. It is a routine outpatient test done after numbing the nose. It takes a few minutes.
What is the cost of sinus surgery or septoplasty in Gurgaon?
The cost depends on the type of surgery, whether both sinuses and septum are being treated, and the hospital. A clear estimate is given after the CT scan and consultation.
Is nose surgery covered under insurance or Ayushman card?
FESS and septoplasty are usually covered by health insurance when they are medically needed. Many are also part of PMJAY packages for eligible card holders. See the Ayushman card page.
Book a consultation
Call +91-8178774813 or use the appointment page. If you have an old CT scan or prescriptions, please bring them along.
Clinic Location
238, Sector 5, Gurugram, Haryana 122001
Sunday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
