7 Causes of Chronic Nasal Congestion
Allergies to pollen, dust, house mites or animal hair can cause swelling of the inner nasal tissue. Frequent sneezing, nasal itching, clear runny nose and tearing are accompanying symptoms. Avoiding the allergen and using appropriate treatments under a doctor's supervision can help control symptoms.
Safir Arjan- Constant nasal congestion is not always related to a cold. Allergies, chronic inflammation of the sinuses, prolonged use of some nasal sprays, and structural problems such as deviated septum can make breathing through the nose difficult. Identifying the underlying cause is important, as the treatment approach is different for each of these conditions.
Allergies to plant pollen, dust, house mites, or animal hair can cause swelling of the inner tissue of the nose. Frequent sneezing, itchy nose, clear discharge and tears are some of the accompanying symptoms. Avoiding the allergen and using appropriate treatments according to the doctor's opinion can help control the symptoms.
2. Prolonged use of anti-congestion sprays
Sprays such as oxymetazoline and xylmetazoline are used for short-term relief of nasal congestion; But taking it for more than a few days can cause cramps to return or worsen. This condition is called "rebound congestion". The limit of use depends on the medicine and the instruction on the package must be followed. If you need these sprays to open your nose regularly, consult your doctor about stopping them and finding a suitable alternative.
Dry air, cigarette smoke, air pollution, strong perfumes and chemicals can irritate the lining of the nose. In this situation, in addition to congestion, dryness, burning or crusting may also be seen in the nose. Saline spray can help moisten the nose. Using a clean fumigator may also be useful in dry environments; Excessive humidity and improper maintenance of the device can increase the growth of mold.
Sinus inflammation may be accompanied by nasal congestion, discharge, decreased sense of smell, and facial pressure or pain. Many acute cases are viral in origin and do not require antibiotics. Persistent symptoms, worsening after a period of improvement, or severe facial pain may require medical evaluation. Congestion of several weeks or months should also be investigated for chronic inflammation of the sinuses.
The nasal septum is the wall that separates the two nasal passages. Its deviation may be congenital or caused after trauma, making it difficult for some people to pass air. Persistent congestion on one side of the nose can be associated with this problem, although it alone is not enough to make a diagnosis. In case of significant breathing disorder and not responding to drug therapy, the otolaryngologist can decide on treatment options, including surgery.
Polyps are non-cancerous and usually painless growths that form as a result of chronic inflammation in the nose or sinuses. Bilateral nasal congestion, reduced sense of smell, runny nose and feeling of pressure in the face are some of their possible symptoms. Treatment may include corticosteroid nasal spray and in some cases other medications or surgery. Polyps are diagnosed by medical examination.
7. Less common causes, including nasal masses
In rare cases, benign or malignant masses can cause persistent nasal congestion. Unilateral congestion that does not go away, frequent nosebleeds, bloody or foul-smelling discharge, facial pain or swelling, and vision changes are symptoms that require medical attention. The presence of these symptoms does not mean that you have cancer, but they should not be ignored without evaluation.
When should you see a doctor?
If the stuffy nose lasts for several weeks, comes back regularly, disturbs your sleep or breathing, or is accompanied by a decrease in smell, it is better to see a doctor to determine the cause. Swelling around the eyes, changes in vision, very severe headache, neck stiffness, or general unwellness require immediate evaluation.
Medical Warning: This article is for general information and is not a substitute for medical diagnosis or treatment. Avoid long-term use of decongestant sprays, and if symptoms persist, frequent bleeding or unilateral nasal congestion, see a doctor or an ear, nose, and throat specialist for a detailed examination.