1. Nasal Congestion 101
Nasal congestion is often a nuisance illness with symptoms similar to those of the common cold. When the inside lining of the nose gets inflamed because of enlarged blood vessels, mucus thickens in the nasal passages and causes a runny nose. Other aggravating symptoms include stuffiness of the nose and head and difficulty breathing.
2. Pinpoint Congestion Culprits
Typically, nasal congestion results when you're fighting a cold, the flu or a sinus infection. Allergies from pollen, dust, smoke or pet dander can also lead to nasal congestion. Although nasal congestion is usually caused by a medical condition, other nonviral, nonallergic conditions can cause it too. Dry air, a deviated septum or polyps in the nose, which may require surgery, are also known culprits.
3. Chase the Symptoms Away
Nasal congestion does go away on its own within one or two weeks, but over-the-counter medications, such as nasal sprays, antihistamines and decongestants can help. Carefully follow the instructions for taking these medications, because using them for longer than three days can actually make the condition worse. Prolonged use of decongestants can also cause a condition referred to as rebound congestion. When this decongestant is in the form of a nasal spray, then rebound congestion can lead to an addiction called rhinitis medicamentosa. Home treatments such as drinking water, tea or broth, and using a humidifier can also improve nasal congestion. Drinking lots of these fluids can help thin out mucus and eventually help your breathing to return to normal.
4. Don't Let Nasal Congestion Linger
If typical remedies don't work and the nasal congestion gets worse, go to a doctor immediately. Signs the condition is getting worse include swelling of the forehead, nose, cheeks or the area around the eyes, a severe sore throat, blurred vision, and a cough, a cold or a stuffy nose that lasts more than two weeks.
5. The Doctor Is In
The doctor will likely ask about the duration of the condition and whether other treatments have worked. The doctor may check you for other symptoms, such as facial pain, loss of your sense of smell, sneezing, itchy or watery eyes, fever, headache and nasal drainage. You may receive an examination of the ears, nose, throat and upper respiratory system, along with other tests to see if a condition other than nasal congestion exists. These include X-rays of the sinuses and chest, blood tests, allergy tests and a sputum or throat culture. Depending on the condition, you may require prescription medication, allergy shots or surgery.
