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Nasal Congestion

Description

Nasal congestion, commonly known as stuffy nose, is frequently a symptom of a minor or major health problem, such as a sinus infection. However, it mostly occurs due to common cold.

Causes

Nasal congestion often resolves within a week. However, in some cases, it may last for longer. The long-term nasal congestion causes include:

  • Allergies
  • Deviated nasal septum
  • Environmental irritants
  • Chronic sinusitis, infection of the sinuses
  • Nasal polyp, non-cancerous nasal growths
  • Hay fever
  • Chemical exposures
  • Hormonal fluctuations
  • Pregnancy (first trimester)

 

Risk factors

The following are the risk factors:

  • Deviated nasal septum
  • Nasal Polyps, non-cancerous nasal growths
  • Dental infection
  • Asthma
  • Allergies
  • Aspirin sensitivity
  • Regular or frequent exposure to irritants such as smoke
Symptoms

The following are the symptoms:

  • Runny or stuffy nose
  • Nasal pain and irritation
  • Headache
  • Mucus accumulation
  • Swollen nasal tissues
  • Red or irritated eyes
  • Fatigue
Diagnosis

Generally, doctors diagnose nasal congestion and its cause after assessing your symptoms and taking a physical exam. An ENT Specialist, or a doctor, may examine your ears, nose and throat to determine the exact cause and prescribe the appropriate medicines and treatment.

Management

Following is the management:

  • Avoiding exposure to the irritants or pollutants
  • Use of medicines prescribed by your doctor
  • Humidifiers
  • Keeping your head on a high level, such as a pillow, to promote mucus flow out of your air passages
  • Steam
  • Saline sprays

Please note that some remedies or medicines may not be recommended for you. Therefore, please consult your doctor before using any medicine or remedy.

When to consult a doctor?

When to consult a doctor:

If your symptoms do not improve within 10 days, or you experience any of the following, please see a doctor:

  • Severe nasal congestion lasting for more than 10 days
  • Nasal congestion accompanied by high fever for more than 3 days
  • Abnormally colored or green nasal discharge combined with sinus pain and fever
  • A weakened immune system
  • Asthma, breathing disorder
  • Emphysema, breathing disorder

Available Medicine for Nasal Congestion