How to Relieve Nasal Congestion?

Nasal congestion, which affects quality of life and causes significant discomfort, can be caused by simple viral infections or seasonal transitions.

However, if persistent nasal congestion leads to insomnia, fatigue, snoring, performance losses, or serious illnesses, it must be treated.

Causes of Nasal Congestion

Deviations in the nasal bone or cartilage: The most common cause of chronic nasal congestion is deviations in the nasal bone or cartilage. Generally, deviations resulting from an accident make breathing more difficult.
Nasal turbinates: Inside the nose, there are turbinates called "conchae" that regulate the temperature and humidify the air passing through the nose. These turbinates can grow large enough to cause nasal congestion due to allergic or inflammatory reasons.
Infections: Cold caused by viruses is one of the most common causes of nasal congestion. Infections cause edema in the nasal mucosa and fluid secretion, leading to nasal congestion.
Allergic rhinitis: Nasal congestion is observed in allergic rhinitis, which develops due to allergens like dust mites, pollen, dust, pet dander, and certain foods.
Tumors inside the nose: Tumors inside the nose that lead to severe nasal congestion, and especially the growth of adenoid (nasal tonsil) tissue seen in children, can also cause nasal congestion.

What Should Be Done for Nasal Congestion?

For a solution to nasal congestion, it is essential to see an ear, nose, and throat specialist. As with all diseases, the treatment of nasal congestion is targeted toward the underlying cause. An endoscopy method may be used to identify the underlying cause. For nasal congestion caused by allergic rhinitis or the growth of nasal turbinates, nasal sprays containing steroids or nasal irrigation solutions may be recommended by the doctor. In cases where nasal deviations cannot be resolved with medication, nasal surgery may be performed to correct the congestion. Another method used to treat nasal congestion is radiofrequency surgery. This intervention, using high-frequency radio waves, provides a healthier and more comfortable method for the patient.

What Helps with Nasal Congestion?

One of the most important factors that trigger nasal congestion is smoking. To prevent nasal congestion, smoking should be stopped, and one should avoid environments where smoking occurs.
During episodes of nasal congestion, reducing milk consumption may help alleviate the condition.
Drinking herbal teas such as lemon, ginger, mint, cinnamon, and turmeric can be beneficial for nasal congestion.
Saline water can help with nasal congestion. During congestion, saline can be applied to the nose or one can swim in the sea.
Those in air-conditioned or heated environments should humidify the room to prevent nasal congestion. Using a steam machine or having boiling water in the room can also help with nasal congestion.
Consuming fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C is beneficial for nasal congestion.

Last Updated Date: 19 April 2018

Publication Date: 19 April 2018