Causes and Solutions for a Stuffy Nose

A blocked nose is very annoying and can even keep you awake at night. How do you quickly clear your nose? The golden tip depends on what exactly caused the blocked nose. We go over the most common causes and tell you what you can do.

Also read: Tips for better sleep with a stuffy nose

Also read: Bet you've been blowing your nose wrong for years?

What to do about a stuffy nose?

1. Infections: Colds, flu, sinus infections, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) are common causes of nasal congestion. Over-the-counter decongestants, antihistamines, and saline nasal sprays can provide relief.
2. Allergies: (Seasonal) allergies caused by pollen (hay fever), pets, dust mites or mold can lead to nasal congestion. Avoiding allergens, using air purifiers and taking allergy medications such as antihistamines or nasal corticosteroids can help you breathe freely again.
3. Nasal polyps: These benign growths in the nasal passages can obstruct airflow. Possible solutions include corticosteroid nasal sprays or oral corticosteroids. In addition, you may consider surgery to remove the polyps.
4. Irritants in the environment: Exposure to smoke, strong odors, pollution, or chemicals can irritate your nasal passages. Try to avoid these triggers and rinse your nose with a saline solution to clear them.
5. Structural problems: A deviated septum or enlarged turbinates can obstruct proper airflow. Surgery may be necessary to correct these structural abnormalities.
6. Medicines: Certain medications, such as nasal decongestants, can cause congestion to recur if used for a long time. Gradually reducing these medications under medical supervision may help relieve congestion.
7. Weather changes: Cold, dry air in winter can irritate the nasal passages. Using a humidifier can help relieve congestion.
8. Hormonal changes: Pregnancy, menstruation or hormonal fluctuations can lead to a stuffy nose. Be sure to drink enough water and use nasal sprays with a saline solution to be able to breathe freely again. You can also rinse your nose regularly with physiological water (saline solution).
9. Food: Some people may experience nasal congestion as a reaction to certain foods. Try to find out if you are sensitive to a particular food and eliminate it from your menu.
10. Chronic diseases: Conditions such as asthma, chronic sinusitis or rhinitis can cause persistent nasal congestion. Proper treatment of these conditions with medication is essential to control symptoms.

Also read: What does the color of your snot say about your health?

Sources:
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org
https://www.houstonent.com