Ear, Nose & Throat

You may want to make sure it is not too hot during the steam inhalation to reduce the burning sensation in the nose. Consider a nasal douche as an alternative. 
 
I hope this information is helpful! Thanks again for asking.

There are a few risks to consider if you have a persistent blocked nose and don't seek treatment. First, sinus pressure can build up and cause pain in the forehead, cheeks, or behind the eyes. Second, infection can occur in the sinuses due to trapped bacteria. And finally, if left untreated for too long, chronic sinus problems can develop. So if you're experiencing a persistent blocked nose, it's best to see a doctor for an evaluation and treatment plan.

The treatment involves treating the underlying cause of the post nasal drip.  A good way to control the symptoms of post nasal drip is to rinse the nose with saline. If it is due to allergy, antihistamine will be useful.  However, if the post nasal drip is one side, we need to cautious not to miss sinister conditions such as sinusitis, nasal polyps or tumour.  Hence, if the symptoms persist, please consult your doctor. 

It depends on what is the medical problem. Most of the time, minimal tests are needed for such conditions. If surgeries are needed, they are not complicated or difficult.  Please ask your friend to consult a doctor who is able to allay his/her fears to both the investigations and treatment.  

If the tonsils are inflamed, anti-inflammatory will be useful.  Antibiotics is useful if there is infection. You may boost your immunity to prevent frequent throat infection.  Adequate sleep, rest , hydration and stress management helps to maintain our immunity.   The long term solution to treat chronically inflamed tonsil is surgery. 

Yes, you should seek medical advice if your condition has worsened especially with trouble swallowing, persistent fever, hoarseness and shortness of breath.

There are many types of throat sprays.  Generally, they can be for pain relief, hydration or anti-septic.  Pain relief throat sprays are good for pain control. Hydrating throat sprays are good for dry mouth and throat. Anti-septic throat sprays help to clean the surface of the wound.  It can help to relief mild throat infections. However, long term anti-septic sprays may alter the mouth natural flora leading to growth of other undesired organism.  As such, doctor advice is needed if long term anti-septic throat sprays are needed. 

Blocked ear may cause poorer hearing.  The extend of hearing loss depends on the severity and cause of ear block.  The treatment of ear block depends on the underlying cause.  

Ear wax is a common cause of ear block.  Beside Q tips and over the counter meds, you may have to see your family doctor for ear drops or ear cleaning.  

The blockage could be wax deeper to where your swab can reach.  The blockage could also be due to your middle or inner ear conditions.  Possible causes of middle ear blockage are fluid behind the ear drum, ear drum perforation, and a mass or growth on the ear drum or in the middle ear space.  It could also be due to a Eustachian tube dysfunction, or sinus issues.  Inner ear causes such as hearing loss and inner ear inflammation are possible too. One of the most important condition to exclude in a male with persistent ear block sensation is nose cancer.  

As the causes are extensive, I suggest a consultation with your GP or an ENT specialist.