Nasal Congestion
Overview
Nasal congestion, or a “stuffy nose,” occurs when one or more processes lead to blockage of air flow through the nose. While it may seem like a minor irritation, persistent congestion can affect sleep, breathing and overall quality of life.\
Why Am I Congested?
Nasal congestion is a symptom, not a condition. Identifying the root cause is key to finding lasting relief. Our ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialists evaluate and treat both temporary and chronic causes.
Types of Causes and Examples
Cause Type | Description | Common Examples |
|---|---|---|
Inflammatory/Allergic | The immune system overreacts, causing swelling and mucus buildup. | Seasonal or year-round allergies (pollen, dust mites, pet dander) or nasal polyps |
Infectious | Caused by viral or bacterial infections. | Common cold, flu, sinus infection |
Structural/Anatomical | Physical blockages that limit airflow. | Deviated septum, or structural collapse |
Environmental/Irritant | Reaction to external triggers or improper treatments. | Smoke, fragrances, overuse of decongestant sprays |
Sinus or Nasal Tumor | Irregular growth in the nose or sinuses | Benign and malignant tumors |
Diagnostic Tools
Our specialists use advanced diagnostics and personalized care plans to address nasal congestion at the source.
• Nasal endoscopy: A quick, in-office procedure using a small camera to examine nasal passages and sinuses
• CT scan: Helps detect structural problems or chronic infections or inflammation
• Allergy testing: Identifies environmental triggers through skin or blood tests
Common symptoms
When to See an ENT Specialist
Most congestion from a cold virus resolves in about 10 days. Contact our ENT team if your symptoms:
• last longer than three to six weeks
• affect only one side of the nose
• include facial pressure
• disrupt your sleep or cause snoring or fatigue
• are associated with bleeding from the nose
• don’t improve with over-the-counter treatments
• return seasonally or repeatedly
Specialty care
Treatment options
- Medication: Includes oral or nasal antihistamines, oral or nasal corticosteroids, antibiotics, saline irrigations or biologics for nasal polyps
- Septoplasty: Surgery to straighten a deviated septum and improve airflow
- Open septorhinoplasty: Surgery that can include straightening a deviated septum, changing the position of the nasal bones, and/or strengthening the sidewalls of the nose to improve nasal breathing.
- Turbinate reduction: Reduces swollen nasal structures to improve breathing
- Endoscopic sinus surgery: Surgery that can be part of a treatment plan to remove polyps or infection that can block nasal breathing.
Care team
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