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Nasal Congestion: causes, treatments, and when to seek help

Nasal congestion, often referred to as a blocked or stuffy nose, is a common issue that most people experience at some point. While it’s rarely a sign of something serious, it can be uncomfortable and inconvenient.

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What causes nasal congestion?

In most cases, nasal congestion is caused by a short-term illness, such as a cold, and will clear up on its own within a couple of weeks. Other frequent causes include allergies, particularly hay fever.

Nasal congestion occurs when the tissues and blood vessels in and around the nose become swollen and inflamed.

This swelling is often the result of:

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Infections

Such as a cold or the flu

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Allergens

Like pollen

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Irritants

Such as smoke or strong odours

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Understanding nasal congestion

In response to these triggers, your immune system produces extra mucus (catarrh) to flush out the irritants or infection. This can lead to a runny nose or post-nasal drip.

If your sinuses (the air-filled spaces behind your cheeks and forehead) become inflamed, you may also experience a build-up of mucus. This can cause sinus pain, which feels like pressure or tenderness around the cheeks, eyes, or forehead.

While nasal congestion is typically short-lived, it can become chronic in some cases, requiring medical attention from a doctor or an Advanced Clinical Practitioner.

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What conditions can cause nasal congestion?

The most common cause of nasal congestion is a cold or the flu. These infections inflame the nasal passages, triggering an increase in mucus production and causing your nose to feel blocked or runny. If the infection spreads to the sinuses, it may result in sinus pain and pressure.

Other possible causes include:

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Allergies – Exposure to triggers like pollen, dust mites, or pet dander can lead to congestion.

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Environmental irritants – Smoke, fumes, or even extreme weather conditions can cause a stuffy nose.
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Anatomical abnormalities – Conditions such as nasal polyps (painless growths in the nose) or a deviated septum (a crooked nasal partition) can lead to chronic congestion.
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Hormonal changes – Pregnancy or hormonal imbalances can sometimes cause nasal congestion.
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Certain medications – Some medicines, including beta-blockers, may cause nasal congestion as a side effect.
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Overuse of decongestant sprays – Prolonged use of nasal sprays can worsen congestion over time.

How can I treat my nasal congestion at home?

If your nasal congestion is recent and not severe, you can manage your symptoms at home with simple remedies and non-prescription products from your pharmacy.

Here are some tips to ease a blocked nose:

  • Stay hydrated – Drink plenty of fluids to keep your nasal passages moist.
  • Inhale steam – Place your face over a bowl of hot water and breathe in the steam.
  • Use a saltwater solution – Saline sprays or rinses can help clear your nasal passages.
  • Apply a warm compress – Place a warm flannel over your nose and cheeks to reduce discomfort.

You can also use decongestants to relieve pressure and swelling in the nasal passages. However, it’s important to follow the instructions carefully and avoid using them for longer than recommended, as overuse can worsen your symptoms.

Allergy relief & when to seek help

If your nasal congestion is allergy-related, antihistamines can help. For best results, try a combination antihistamine and decongestant.

When should I speak to a GP or Advanced Clinical Practitioner (ACP)?

You should speak to a healthcare professional if your nasal congestion:

  • Doesn’t go away after a couple of weeks.
  • Affects your quality of life or ability to sleep.
  • Is accompanied by persistent sinus pain, headaches, or facial swelling.

Your doctor may recommend tests to identify the cause of your congestion. These could include allergy testing or checks for nasal polyps, a deviated septum, or sinus issues.

If your symptoms are linked to your working environment, such as exposure to allergens or irritants, you may be at risk of occupational asthma. This condition requires tailored advice on managing triggers and using the appropriate treatment.

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