A stuffy nose, or nasal congestion, is the result of obstruction in the sinus cavity. Different conditions and illnesses can lead to a stuffy nose and headache year-round, such as chronic sinusitis, allergic rhinitis and nasal deformities, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. A headache with a stuffy nose is the result of sinus pressure building up throughout the head. A sinus headache is felt in the ears, eyes and behind the cheekbones. Talk with a doctor for a professional diagnosis and appropriate treatments.
Chronic Sinusitis
MayoClinic.com defines chronic sinusitis as a condition that causes inflammation in the sinus cavity for more than eight weeks or that is reoccurring. Chronic sinusitis is an infection in the sinuses that causes symptoms such as nasal congestion, discharge, sneezing, postnasal drip and sinus pressure pain. Chronic sinusitis may be accompanied by a low-grade fever and body chills. Treatment for chronic sinusitis begins with identifying the underlying cause of the constant infection. Common treatments include the use of antihistamines, decongestants, nasal corticosteroids and immunotherapy. Seek medical advice on the best treatment to use.
Allergic Rhinitis
Allergic rhinitis, or hay fever, is a physiological response of the immune system to allergens that cause an allergic reaction, according to the University of Michigan. Allergic rhinitis can affect someone year-round due to household allergens, such as pet dander, dust mites and cockroaches. Allergic rhinitis causes inflammation in the sinuses, eye irritation and sinus pressure. Sinus headaches are commonly associated with allergic rhinitis. Treatment for hay fever includes avoiding known allergens, taking antihistamines, decongestants and other prescribed medications. Someone with year-round hay fever should talk with an allergist about allergy shots.
Nasal Polyps
Nasal deformities cause a stuffy nose and headache year-round. Nasal polyps are growths along the lining of the nasal cavity that cause minor to major obstruction in the sinuses, according to the American Rhinologic Society. No one knows exactly what causes polyps, but they can be irritated by inflammation or infection. Nasal polyps are treated with nasal corticosteroid sprays. In severe cases, nasal polyps are surgically removed.
Deviated Septum
Most people's center bone of the nose is considered crooked, according to the American Academy of Otolaryngology. When the septum is severely crooked, it can cause chronic nasal obstruction and sinus headaches. Deviated septums are the result of facial injury or a growth defect and should be evaluated by an eye, nose and throat specialist. A deviated septum is only fixed with surgery.
