Nasal congestion is a common symptom caused by various environmental factors and conditions. In most instances, nasal blockage improves over time and can be expedited through home remedies like vaporizers, humidifiers, saline sprays, and other methods. However, in some cases, additional nasal blockage treatments may be necessary, including surgery if you have a deviated septum.

Keep reading to learn more about how to fix a nasal blockage and other aspects of this condition!

Symptoms

Also referred to as a stuffy nose, nasal congestion is commonly a symptom of another health issue like a cold or sinus infection. Nasal congestion can easily be identified by you when swollen nasal tissue, mucus buildup, sinus pain, or a runny or stuffy nose appears. Home remedies are often successful, but if you experience long-term congestion, you may require treatment to block nasal cavities.

Nasal Blockage Causes

Minor illnesses are the most common root causes of nasal blockage and congestion, most of which improve within two weeks. If it lasts longer than that, an underlying health issue could be the culprit. Most explanations for long-term nasal blockage include the following:

• Allergies
• Anatomic variants
• Chemical exposures
• Chronic sinusitis
• Enlarged adenoids
• Environmental irritants
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease
• Hay fever
• Noncancerous growths
• Sino nasal tumors

Home Remedies

As mentioned, the most common home treatment for blocked nasal passages is humidifiers and vaporizers, which add moisture to the air to help soothe inflamed nasal passageways and break up mucus. Also, propping your head on pillows can aid in mucus flowing out of your nasal passages. This simple trick can be implemented when you’re watching television or sleeping. Saline sprays are another excellent option, with an aspirator or nasal bulb for babies. Furthermore, a neti pot, a nasal irrigation device, helps flush mucus from the nasal cavity using a saline solution. Other nasal irrigation devices, such as squeeze bottles, could be easier to use and are less messy. These devices are an excellent option because they reduce inflammation and clear congestion. Finally, always use distilled or filtered water since tap water could increase infection.

Treatment for Long-Term 

Home remedies may not be successful for those with long-term congestion, so it can be challenging to understand how to fix a nasal blockage. The first step is to determine the root cause of the issue so they can recommend a treatment plan. These guidelines usually involve prescription or over-the-counter medication to alleviate symptoms. Common medications include;

• Antibiotics
• Oral antihistamines
• Nasal sprays
• Nasal steroids
• Prescription-strength decongestants

If medication doesn’t work, you could have nasal polyps in your sinuses or passages that prevent mucus from draining out, which is much more difficult to understand how to fix a nasal blockage. You may need biologics, steroid rinses, or oral steroids to relieve symptoms. In the worst situations, surgery may be recommended to remove the polyps. If tumors are found inside your nasal passages, then a biopsy will be required to understand if they are malignant, and surgery may also be recommended.

When to Seek Treatment

It’s time to seek treatment when home remedies aren’t enough to relieve the blockage, especially when a different health condition causes symptoms. Getting help is critical when the condition interferes with daily activities or is painful. If you’ve experienced any of the following, seek treatment immediately:

• A weakened immune system, emphysema, or asthma.
• Congestion that lasts longer than two weeks.
• Congestion that’s accompanied by a high fever for more than three days.
• Green nasal discharge with a fever and sinus pain.

Children and Infants

Nasal blockage is a common issue among infants and children. Since infants breathe through their noses during the first several months of life, nasal congestion could cause breathing issues and interfere with feeding. For this reason, seeking treatment immediately for your infant is always recommended. This is critical when infants under three months old have these symptoms.

Frequency of Nasal Blockage

Nasal blockage rarely leads to significant health issues. It is usually caused by a cold or sinus infection, which goes away with over-the-counter medicine or home remedies within a week. If you’re experiencing a chronic nasal blockage, it’s best to speak to a healthcare professional to understand the underlying problem, which will help determine the best treatment options.

If you’re looking for the latest nasal blockage treatment, contact ENT Utah today to learn more about your options! The professionals at ENT Utah can help you find a nasal blockage treatment plan that works for you!

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