What Causes a Blocked Nose?
Most of us have experienced nasal congestion with headaches, mucus buildup, and throat irritation at some point. Breathing through the mouth is an unpleasant experience, particularly for those who frequently get nasal congestion.
Those with a compromised immune system are more prone to get their nose blocked than adults with healthy immune function. Most episodes of nasal congestion can be resolved on their own with home remedies. Some, which persist and are accompanied by other symptoms, may require a visit to the ENT Clinic in Navi Mumbai. Here’s what causes a blocked nose.
Common Causes of a Blocked Nose
From allergies to infection, a blocked nose is linked to many causes.
1) Allergic Reaction:
Your body may mistake a harmless thing for a dangerous substance, triggering an inflammatory response. This releases histamine, leading to inflammation in your nasal passage and mucus production. Identifying and avoiding things you are allergic to can help prevent nasal blockage. If your nose is completely blocked and your sense of taste and smell has changed due to an allergic reaction, consider taking over-the-counter antihistamines.
2) Common Cold and Viral Infections:
The common cold is another cause of nasal congestion. Flu can also be the culprit for a blocked nose, especially when it occurs with fever and muscle aches. A cold lasts a few days and often doesn’t require any treatment. Just rest and drink plenty of fluids.
3) Dry Air:
Low humidity in winter and dry air in the rooms can irritate your nasal passage, causing swelling and mucus production. Using a humidifier can help ease your symptoms.
Less Common Causes
a) Structural Issues:
Although less common, there’s a possibility that the frequent episodes of nasal congestion are because of a nasal polyp (non-cancerous growth) that obstructs airflow through your nose. Or, there could be a deviated septum where the thin walls that separate your nose into two parts get off-center. Nasal spray can help with decongestion, although more severe cases where sleep and breathing are affected require a surgical repair.
b) Hormonal Fluctuations:
Pregnancy can cause a significant hormone fluctuation, which results in increased blood flow to the nose and a temporary blockage.
Symptoms Associated with a Blocked Nose
Here are a few symptoms people with nasal congestion experience:
- Thick, yellow, or green mucus released from the nose
- Blocked and stuffy nose that makes breathing difficult
- Headaches
- Pain in the cheeks and nose
Depending on the cause, you may experience additional symptoms like fever, body ache, fatigue, ear ache, cough, and nose bleeds.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Nasal congestion due to a cold or flu will pass in a week or two. Although less common, nasal blockage can be due to bacterial sinusitis, which may require a course of antibiotics. If the symptoms persist for more than two weeks or get worse after seven days, it could indicate a sinus infection. See a nose specialist in Navi Mumbai if you suspect a sinus infection or a structural issue. Medical care is also needed if home remedies do not help and nasal blockage occurs with a high temperature, mucus production, and difficulty breathing.
