When your nose is constantly stuffed, it makes it hard to sleep, breathe comfortably, or function during the day. While we tend to assume we still have a cold, chronic congestion is more often a sign of another issue that could need attention. Looking at the most common causes, you may be able to spot a trend that will help you find the right relief.
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Estimated reading time: 5 minutes
What Does Chronic Nasal Congestion Look Like?
When a stuffy or blocked nose lasts for 12 weeks or longer, it is considered chronic congestion. In many cases, it happens when there is inflammation, extra mucus, or other issues blocking the nasal airway. This can make it difficult to breathe through your nose and may even lead to pressure in your face, a postnasal drip, or a reduced ability to smell.
1. Allergic Rhinitis
The most common source of a persistently blocked nose is allergies. In some cases, it may be pollen, dust mites, animal dander, or mold that causes your immune system to swell the lining inside your nose.
Other symptoms include:
- Itching and sneezing
- Watery eyes
- Seasonal or all-year-round symptoms
If you have trouble avoiding certain triggers, then there may be medications you can take to help ease your symptoms.
2. Chronic Sinusitis
Sinusitis is another possible cause that occurs when your sinuses are inflamed for a long time, and your sinus passageways may remain blocked. You won’t be able to drain the mucus from your nasal cavities, which results in more congestion and sinus pressure.
Also may feel:
- Pain or pressure on your face
- Runny or congested nose
- A decreased ability to smell
You will likely be prescribed topical sprays or oral medications to treat this condition, but sometimes you will also need further testing by an otolaryngologist (ENT or ear, nose, and throat doctor).
Resource: my.clevelandclinic.org
3. Nasal Polyps
Nasal polyps are non-cancerous swellings that can form in the lining of your nasal cavity. When polyps become larger, they can obstruct your nasal airway and lead to congestion. In many cases, nasal polyps form in people with chronic sinus issues, and those with a history of asthma are at higher risk of developing this problem. Polyps are sometimes removed through surgery or treated with prescription medications.
Resource: mayoclinichealthsystem.org
4. Deviated Septum
If the tissue that separates your nostrils is shifted, it is said to have a deviated septum. This will not only affect the nasal airway and cause congestion, but it can also affect the ability to breathe properly.
Typical symptoms include:
- Obstructions on either side of the nasal passage
- Increased occurrence of sinus infections
- Snoring at night
In some cases, this is corrected through surgery, especially if symptoms make it impossible to get through the day.
5. Environmental Irritants
In some cases, smoke, industrial fumes, harsh chemicals, and other irritants are irritating the tissue inside the nasal passageways. These exposures are likely to lead to further swelling and congestion. If you can limit these exposures at home and work, the symptoms may start to improve.
6. Non-Allergic Rhinitis
This form of rhinitis is similar to allergies, but occurs without an allergic trigger. There are also no itchy symptoms like there are with allergies. Instead, nasal congestion is triggered by spicy food, weather changes, medications, or hormonal changes. Other symptoms of non-allergic rhinitis include:
- Postnasal drip
- Runny or stuffy nose
Treatment focuses on finding the triggers and then managing your symptoms.
7. Overusing Nasal Sprays
Some OTC sprays for congestion may cause what is known as the “rebound” effect. In other words, using them regularly can result in worsening congestion once you no longer have the drug in your system. If your doctor or pharmacist tells you to stop using a nasal spray for longer than 3-5 days, it is important you follow those directions. Otherwise, symptoms will begin to get worse, creating a never-ending cycle.
How Can You Tell When You Need a Specialist?
If you can’t seem to get relief from congestion using OTC medicines or decongestants, you may wish to see an ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) specialist for a more comprehensive treatment plan. The specialist will determine whether your condition is structural or environmental, or if it is caused by inflammation.
If any of these factors match your situation, you may wish to seek a specialist’s help. They include:
- A condition that lasts 12 weeks
- Pain in the nose, forehead, or cheek areas that is severe
- Ongoing nasal infections
- An inability to breathe through the nose
How Does an ENT Treat Chronic Congestion?
Once a diagnosis is made, a course of action or treatment will be recommended to alleviate your symptoms. This can include a variety of treatments depending on the problem. Some examples include:
- Prescription nasal sprays
- Allergy medication or immunotherapy
- Antibiotics, if a bacterial infection is detected
- Minimally invasive endoscopy
- Other surgical methods
Taking action early on can keep things from getting worse and give you more time for everyday activities.
Final Thoughts
In some cases, an ongoing blocked nose or nasal congestion can mean you’ve had the same cold for many months. However, it is more often caused by other issues that can be identified with an evaluation. The doctors specialize in diagnosing and treating issues with the nose and sinuses. Contact Colorado ENT & Allergy for more information about how we can help you achieve relief and better, easier breathing.
