We all know just how unpleasant and even a nuisance nasal problems can be. Inflamed nasal tissue can often lead to the dreaded stuffy nose or nasal congestion. In most cases, a mild illness such as a cold or sinus infection is to blame; however, once the illness goes away, the nasal congestion should go away, too. If your symptoms last for weeks on end, then there is typically something else that’s going on.
Some causes of chronic or recurring nasal congestion include,
- Nasal polyps
- Allergies
- Chronic sinusitis
- Deviated septum
- Environmental toxins and irritants
- Hormonal fluctuations (more common during pregnancy)
When should I see a doctor?
If you find that your symptoms last for more than 10 days then it’s a good time to turn to our ENT team for a consultation. We can assess the problem and determine the cause before providing you with treatment options.
How are nasal problems treated?
The first thing we need to do is determine the cause of your nasal problems before we can create your treatment plan. Some treatment plans will involve medications, either over-the-counter or prescription (or both), depending on the type and severity of your symptoms. Common medications used to treat nasal problems include antihistamines, steroidal sprays, antibiotics, or decongestants. If a deviated septum or nasal polyps is to blame, surgery may be recommended to remove or correct these abnormalities to help the nasal passages properly drain.
