Clinician handoff
Chronic Sinus & Nasal Problems
Designed for a 60-second scan in primary care. Use this to explain why this theory fits, what would weaken it, and which tests are most worth discussing.
Why this still fits
I have chronic nasal congestion with associated brain fog. I would like referral to ENT for nasal endoscopy to check for structural causes.
What would weaken it
- -Do you have chronic nasal congestion?
- -Do you mouth-breathe at night?
- -Do symptoms worsen with specific triggers?
- -Do you snore?
Key points to communicate
- •I have chronic nasal congestion, facial pressure, and/or postnasal drip alongside cognitive symptoms
- •A 2025 meta-analysis found CRS patients have 9% poorer cognitive function, and treatment improves it
- •I would like nasal endoscopy to evaluate for deviated septum, polyps, or turbinate enlargement
- •If I also snore or mouth-breathe, I would like a sleep study to evaluate for UARS/OSA
Tests and measurements to discuss
Need the fuller context? Use the test explainers for the measurement itself, or jump back to the tests section on the Chronic Sinus & Nasal Problems page to see how the tests fit the whole pattern.
Nasal endoscopy
CT sinuses (if indicated)
Allergy testing
Sleep study (if mouth breathing/snoring)
What this helps clarify: Overnight polysomnography explainer framed around the patient-facing 'sleep study' language most people actually search.
Range context
Sleep report
How to use the result
Ask whether the goal is to rule in sleep apnea, UARS, or another sleep-disruption pattern.
Nasal endoscopy (ENT)
Direct visualisation — gold standard for structural assessment.
What this helps clarify: Direct visualisation — gold standard for structural assessment.
Allergy testing (skin prick or IgE panel)
Guides allergen avoidance strategy.
What this helps clarify: Guides allergen avoidance strategy.
Peer-reviewed references