Nasal Congestion
Learn about the various conditions related to the nose
What is Nasal Congestion?
Nasal congestion refers to a stuffy nose; it is one of the most common health problems. Nasal congestion occurs when the inside of the nose becomes inflamed due to swollen blood vessels. If nasal congestion is left untreated, it can lead to hearing problems, chronic fatigue, insomnia, and headaches. It can also increase the frequency and volume of snoring, leading to sleep apnea (stopping breathing while asleep) in severe cases, if nasal congestion is left untreated.
Diagnosis
Your doctor will diagnose nasal congestion by examining the nose and performing diagnostic tests such as skin allergy tests (to check for any allergen sensitivity), blood tests, sputum culture test (to check for bacterial or viral infection), and X-rays of the sinuses and chest.
Causes
The four main causes of nasal congestion are:
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Infections: the common cold or acute sinusitis that occurs as a result of a common cold are caused by a viral infection. These viruses spread through the air, causing inflammation of the nasal tissues. If the mucous membrane turns yellow or green, it indicates that it has complicated with a bacterial infection. Sinusitis infections can also cause nasal congestion, headaches, sore throat, cough, and overall discomfort, among other symptoms. The paranasal sinuses are located near the nose.
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Structural abnormalities: Structural abnormalities that can cause nasal congestion include deformities of the nose, such as a deviated septum, which may be the result of an injury or present from birth; enlarged turbinates (hypertrophy), nasal tumors such as polyps, collapse of the nasal valve, bent or twisted nose, and obstructive adenoids. One of the most common causes of nasal congestion in children is hypertrophied adenoids, which are a third tonsil located in the back of the nose.
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Allergies are due to the inflammatory response of the body to harmless environmental substances called allergens, such as pollen, dust mites, household dust, animal dander, and tobacco smoke. These allergens release a substance called histamine that can cause congestion and excessive production of nasal mucus.
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Rinitis vasomotora is a non-allergic condition that is characterized by inflammation of the nasal membranes due to an abnormal reaction of the blood vessels’ nerves in the nose. The membranes of the nose have the ability to expand and contract; during an allergic reaction, these membranes expand so much that nasal congestion occurs.
Treatment
Surgery may be necessary to correct structural abnormalities. Some of the surgical procedures include:
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Septoplasty: to correct a deviated nasal septum.
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Turbinate reduction surgery (tubinoplasty) to reduce the size of enlarged inferior nasal turbinates.
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Polipectomy: to remove nasal polyps.
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Functional rhinoplasty: to correct external valve collapse.
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Adenoidectomy: to remove hypertrophied adenoids.
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Functional endoscopic sinus surgery: to establish enlarged openings of the nasal sinuses.
The following are some of the medical treatments that can be used to treat nasal congestion:
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Nasal spray and drop decongestants: These medications reduce inflamed blood vessels in the nasal mucosa. They should not be used for more than 3 days, as they could worsen congestion.
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Antihistamines are prescribed to prevent the allergic reaction and improve congestion.
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Nasal adhesive strips are available that can be placed over the nose, which can help widen the nasal passages and make breathing easier.
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Antibiotics: are prescribed, in addition to anti-inflammatory medication, for sinus infection that causes pain and swelling around the nose.
Prevention
Interesting Facts about Snoring:
- Avoid smoking as it will aggravate the allergy.
- Remove the furry pet that causes the allergy.
- Increase humidity in the air by using vaporization or a humidifier.
- Drink plenty of fluids, hot tea, and chicken soup can be helpful.
- Use gentle saline nasal sprays.
- Keep your head elevated when lying down.
- Avoid spraying perfumes.
- It is recommended to take a steam bath to help open up blocked nasal passages.
Do you have any questions?
Dr. Gonzalo Jiménez Orci understands that a surgical intervention is a big decision, which is why you can contact him through his phone number, email, or request an appointment where you can clarify all your concerns.
Learn about Dr. Gonzalo Jimenez.
Dr. Gonzalo Jiménez Orci has extensive experience in the field of otolaryngology, specializing in Cosmetic Nose Surgery, offering quality service and a friendly approach.
