Introduction
Nasal congestion refers to the feeling of stuffiness or blockage in the nasal passages, making it difficult to breathe through the nose.
Story
Constant nasal congestion that persists even when other cold symptoms have subsided can be a sign of another underlying condition. Some of the most common causes of chronic nasal congestion include:
- Allergic rhinitis: An allergy to substances such as pollen, dust mites, or animal dander can cause chronic nasal congestion, along with other symptoms such as sneezing, itching, and runny nose.
- Sinusitis: Inflammation or infection of the sinuses can cause nasal congestion, along with headaches, pain or pressure in the face, and thick yellow or green discharge from the nose.
- Deviated septum: A deviated septum is a condition where the nasal septum is crooked, which can cause one side of the nose to be more congested than the other.
- Nasal polyps: These small growths in the nasal passages can cause nasal congestion and a loss of sense of smell.
- Rhinitis medicamentosa: Overuse of decongestant nasal sprays can lead to a rebound effect, causing the nasal passages to become even more congested when the medication wears off.
- Non-allergic rhinitis: This condition can cause nasal congestion without any obvious allergy triggers.
Conclusion
If you are experiencing chronic nasal congestion, it is important to seek medical attention to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment. Your healthcare provider may recommend allergy testing, imaging studies, or other diagnostic tests to help diagnose the cause of your symptoms.