NASAL CONGESTION - WatsonsHealth

NASAL CONGESTION

Stuffy nose or nasal congestion can be a sign of other health problems like sinus infection or common cold.

Usually home remedies will be helpful to relieve the symptoms, but if you are suffering from long-term or chronic congestion, consult with your doctor.

The common causes of nasal congestion are allergies, flu and colds.

If nasal congestion lasts longer than a week, it is typically a symptom of another health disorder.

Long-term congestion may indicate:

  • Hay fever
  • Allergies
  • Nasal polyps
  • Exposure to chemicals
  • Irritation from the environment
  • Deviated septum
  • Chronic sinusitis

Nasal congestion may be seen in pregnant woman when the first trimester ends. During pregnancy, nasal congestion is caused by hormonal imbalance and increase in blood supply. It may disturb nasal membranes and result in inflammation, dryness or bleeding.

DIAGNOSIS

In some cases home remedies can’t help in relieving nasal congestion. If there is any underlying health issue that causes nasal congestion, home remedies will be ineffective.

At this point, medical treatment may be required, particularly if nasal congestion is painful and disturbing with your daily life.

When congestion is not relieved by home remedies you have to consult a doctor.

You should consult your doctor under these conditions:

  • congestion that is not relieved within 10 days
  • congestion along with high fever that has lasted longer than three days
  • green nasal discharge accompanied by fever and sinus pain
  • emphysema, asthma or weakened immune system

 

MEDICATIONS/TREATMENT

After your doctor has determined the cause of chronic nasal congestion, they can recommend a treatment plan.

Treatment ranges from over-the-counter medications to surgery based on the underlying causes. Medications will be given to alleviate symptoms or resolve.

It is recommended to consult with your doctor regarding your nasal congestion problems before taking any medications.

The common medications for nasal congestion are listed below:

  • Loratadine and cetirizine – oral antihistamines that are used to resolve allergies
  • Azelastine – Nasal sprays containing antihistamine
  • Fluticasone or mometasone – nasal steroids
  • Antibiotics
  • Over-the-counter or prescribed decongestants to alleviate symptoms

If you have sinuses, nasal polyps or tumors surgery will be the recommended treatment.

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