What Causes Blockage In Air Passage While Suffering With Sinus Drip?

Woke up in the middle of night now being able to catch a breath.. something was blocking my air way - coughed and coughed until it cleared... what could it be - I have a hiatal hernia and sinus drip - either one of these? I still am having trouble swallowing like there is something in the way.. i can actually feel it