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One side of the nose always blocked

Also called: One-sided nasal blockage

One side of the nose always blocked can be from a deviated septum, polyps, or rarely a tumor, especially with bleeding.

Common causesDeviated septum, polyps
Usually serious?Usually not
Get checked ifBleeding or one-sided
If you think it's an emergency, call 911.Thinking about suicide? Call or text 988.

Overview

Children may have something stuck in the nose.

Bleeding needs checking.

When to get medical care

Call 911Not an emergency.
Get care todayBleeding or foul smell.
See a doctor soonOne side always blocked.

Causes

Causes include deviated septum, polyps, and objects.

OwieClear has pages on 4 conditions that can cause one side of the nose always blocked. Each shows how soon to get care.

Common causes

  • Deviated septumSee a doctor if it doesn't get better

    The wall between the nostrils is off-center, making one side of the nose harder to breathe through.

Less likely causes

  • Extranodal NK/T-cell lymphoma, nasal typeOften needs care today

    A rare, aggressive lymphoma linked to Epstein-Barr virus that usually starts in the nose or throat.

  • Nasopharyngeal cancerSee a doctor if it doesn't get better

    Cancer of the upper part of the throat behind the nose.

  • NUT carcinomaOften needs care today

    A very rare, aggressive cancer defined by a NUTM1 gene change, usually in the chest, head, or neck, and often in young people.

What you can do at home

  • Saline rinses.

Medicines

Surgery if needed.

At the doctor

Scope exam.

Questions you may be asked

  • Bleeding

The exam

A nose exam.

Tests

  • Scope exam
  • CT

Prevention

Get checked.

  • Don't ignore

Check your symptoms

Most symptoms have more than one possible cause. The symptom checker looks at all of your symptoms together, plus your age, and shows how soon to get care.

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Sources

Last updated 2026-11-13.