Oh the joy of nasal congestion. It can come out of nowhere and is usually the first sign of other symptoms headed your way.

There can be many causes of nasal congestion. Our team at ExcelENT of Alabama wants to help you figure out not only the cause but also a sinus treatment plan so that you can get back to living your life without a stuffy nose! 

What Causes Nasal Congestion?

Nasal congestion, also known as a “stuffy nose,” occurs when the blood vessels inside the nose (in addition to the adjacent tissues) become swollen with excessive fluid. This fluid is what gives the nose a feeling of being “stuffy.”

Symptoms of nasal congestion include stuffy/runny nose, nasal pain, mucus buildup and/or nasal swelling. Since there could be a number of health-care issues causing your nasal congestion symptom, including but not limited to:

• Allergies
• Benign tumors
• Chronic sinusitis
• Common cold
• Deviated septum
• Flu
• Hay fever
• Nasal polyps
• Sinus infection
• Various irritants, like tobacco smoke

Therefore, since there can be various reasons why you are suffering from nasal congestion, it is important to seek medical attention, especially if your symptoms have lasted a few days without relief, or new symptoms have appeared. 

What Treatments Help with Nasal Congestion?

Trying to be productive during the day with nasal congestion can be difficult. As a result, you want to try to find relief from nasal congestion as soon as possible. 

Fortunately, there are some home remedies you can try for a stuffy nose to see if anything can work to alleviate your symptoms. 

First, try sleeping with a humidifier at night. A humidifier allows moisture to be added to the air, which can help not only break up mucus but also soothe your nasal passages that are inflamed. 

Second, placing a warm face cloth over your face can also help in soothing your nasal passages and finding relief from a stuffy nose. You might also want to use this treatment method while also using pillows to prop your head up during the night to help you breathe easier. 

Finally, taking a hot shower can also assist in clearing up your nasal congestion, as the steam from the shower can improve breathing by allowing the mucus to drain through the nose. Although this home remedy method might not last as long as the others, it can certainly help you to find relief for at least a while. 

Is It Time to Visit a Doctor?

If home remedies do not work, it might be time to seek medical attention so that a better diagnosis and treatment plan can be given to help treat your nasal congestion, including:

• Antibiotics
• Nasal spray, which includes an antihistamine 
• Nasal steroid
• Prescription-strength decongestants
• Surgery, if caused by nasal polyps or tumors

Tired of suffering from endless sinus infections? Contact the team at ExcelENT of Alabama today to schedule an appointment to discuss your options when it comes to the treatment of chronic sinusitis.