Nasal congestion, or a stuffy nose, is commonly thought of as excessive mucus in the nose, but is more accurately caused by inflammation in the sinuses, according to the University of Maryland's Medical Center. The inflamed sinuses swell, obstructing the person's ability to breathe normally. The obstruction also causes mucus to build up in the nasal cavity, which can lead to an infection. A doctor can recommend the best treatment for a stuffy nose.
Causes
A stuffy nose is caused by the common cold, the flu, allergies, a sinus infection, nasal polyps or environmental factors, according to MedlinePlus. Treatment for a stuffy nose begins by identifying the cause. For example, if someone tried to treat a stuffy nose with an antihistamine, but the congestion was caused by nasal polyps, the treatment wouldn't help.
Symptoms
A stuffy nose can be accompanied by various other symptoms, used to identify the cause. If a stuffy nose is caused by the common cold, the patient will often have a low-grade fever and feel tired. Nasal congestion from allergies will cause symptoms to appear suddenly and can cause violent sneezing, watery eyes and postnasal drip. Chronic nasal congestion is accompanied with constant or recurring sinus pain, pressure and headaches.
Home Remedies
MedlinePlus states that many home treatments are used for a stuffy nose. Saline nasal spray or sinus wash can cleanse and moisten the sinuses. Humidifiers can add moisture to the air at night in the bedroom. Increased fluid intake, especially of hot liquids such as tea, can thin mucus secretions. Sleeping with the head elevated can encourage nasal drainage. Inhaling steam, by standing in a hot shower or over a pot of boiling water, can provide relief.
Medical Treatment
A stuffy nose from a bacterial infection may require antibiotics, according to the American Academy of Otolaryngology. General nasal congestion is treated with over-the-counter decongestants that work by restricting blood flow to the sinuses. This causes a reduction in sinus inflammation, restoring normal breathing. Antihistamines are used to treat a stuffy nose related to allergies. They work by maintaining normal histamine levels in the body.
Considerations
MedlinePlus recommends seeing a doctor if the stuffy nose is accompanied by a swollen forehead or eyes, blurred vision and throat pain. If a cough develops and lasts for more than 10 days, talk with a doctor. A stuffy nose that lasts for more than two weeks could be a sign of a more serious condition.
