Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: October 7, 2025View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

Differential Diagnosis for Chronic Right Nasal Congestion

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Deviated Nasal Septum: This condition is a common cause of unilateral nasal congestion and can occur due to trauma, genetic predisposition, or developmental issues. The deviation of the nasal septum can lead to turbulent airflow, causing congestion on the affected side.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Nasal Polyps: These are growths that can occur inside the nasal passages and sinuses, leading to chronic congestion, loss of smell, and discharge. They can be associated with allergies, asthma, or infection.
  • Chronic Sinusitis: Inflammation of the sinuses can cause persistent nasal congestion, facial pain, and discharge. This condition can be due to infection, allergies, or anatomical issues.
  • Turbinate Bone Hypertrophy: The turbinate bones in the nose can become enlarged, leading to obstruction of airflow and congestion. This can be a primary condition or secondary to other nasal issues.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Nasal Tumors (Benign or Malignant): Although rare, tumors in the nasal cavity or sinuses can cause unilateral congestion, bleeding, or loss of smell. Early detection is crucial for effective treatment.
  • Invasive Fungal Sinusitis: This is a serious condition that can occur in immunocompromised individuals, leading to destruction of the nasal and sinus tissues. It requires prompt diagnosis and treatment to prevent severe complications.
  • Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (GPA): Formerly known as Wegener's granulomatosis, GPA is a systemic vasculitis that can affect the nasal passages and sinuses, causing congestion, bleeding, and destruction of tissue.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Nasal Foreign Body: Although more common in children, a foreign body in the nasal cavity can cause unilateral congestion and discharge in adults as well.
  • Choanal Atresia: A congenital condition where there is a blockage of the choana (the passageway connecting the nose to the throat), which can cause unilateral nasal congestion.
  • Sarcoidosis: A systemic disease that can affect the nasal passages and sinuses, leading to congestion, granulomas, and other symptoms.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.