Nasal congestion

Nasal congestion, or obstruction, can be acute (sudden) or chronic (long-standing). Congestion refers to a waxing and waning phenomenon, whereas obstruction is constant.

The sudden appearance of congestion can be due to changes in temperature, a viral infection, allergies, or sudden exposure to inhaled irritants. 

Progressive deterioration of nasal breathing over time can be due to allergies or chronic inflammation, nasal polyps or chronic sinusitis. Long-standing nasal obstruction, particularly after a trauma, can be caused by septal deviation, enlarged turbinates, or a nasal valve problem. 

Evaluation by an ENT surgeon is essential to determine the cause of your nasal obstruction. The evaluation starts with a complete questionnaire and a physical examination that incluses nasal endoscopy (with a camera). Your doctor may also send you to do additional tests such as allergy testing or a CT scan of your sinuses.

Treatments vary depending on the cause, and can include nasal steroids, allergy desensitisation, nasal strips or cones, saline rinses, antibiotics, oral steroids, or different types of surgery.