Persistent nasal obstruction and facial pain could indicate what condition?

Persistent nasal obstruction accompanied by facial pain is a strong indicator of chronic rhinosinusitis. This condition is characterized by inflammation of the sinus and nasal passages lasting longer than 12 weeks, often leading to a blockage in the nasal passages, resulting in difficulty breathing through the nose. The associated facial pain typically occurs due to increased pressure in the sinuses, which can become painful when they are blocked or infected.

Additionally, chronic rhinosinusitis can also involve other symptoms such as thick nasal discharge, reduced sense of smell, and cough, further supporting its diagnosis. Unlike acute otitis media, which primarily involves the middle ear and is usually associated with ear pain and fever, chronic rhinosinusitis is focused on nasal and sinus symptoms. Allergic rhinitis and viral rhinitis tend to cause more temporary symptoms like sneezing and watery eyes but do not usually result in facial pain as a prominent feature, making chronic rhinosinusitis the most appropriate answer in this context.