Common Causes of Nasal Problems

May 6, 2022

Has your nose been stuffy or runny for some time now? Or maybe you’re experiencing constant postnasal drainage? If that’s the case, we recommend visiting a doctor. Persisting stuffy nose, sinus pains, and postnasal drainage could be symptoms of an underlying medical condition like chronic sinusitis or nasal congestions.

 

If you have a common cold or the flu, home remedies are typically sufficient to treat them. However, if your symptoms are long-lasting and on and off, you might require medical attention.
 
Various conditions could be causing your nasal problems. Here are some of them.


Nasal Congestion


When the tissues in your nose become swollen with excess fluid, it can lead to a stuffy or plugged feeling. This condition is referred to as nasal congestion. It’s commonly caused by inflammation of the blood vessels in the nasal passage. If you encounter particular allergens or are recovering from a common cold or the flu, it could cause inflammation in your sinuses, resulting in nasal congestion.


Allergic Rhinitis


Allergic rhinitis or hay fever is an allergic reaction to tiny particles in the air called allergens. Common allergens include dust mites, pollen, mold, and pet dander.
 
When you come into contact with allergens, your body produces histamine, a natural chemical that tries to get rid of unwanted substances. Histamine triggers allergic reactions, leaving you with a stuffy nose or watery eyes.

 

If someone in your family has severe allergies, you’re more likely to experience allergic rhinitis. Doctors usually prescribe antihistamine medications, nasal sprays, or decongestants to treat allergic rhinitis.


Deviated Septum


When the thin wall dividing your nasal passages is displaced to one side, it’s referred to as a deviated septum. This means that one of your nasal passages is smaller than the other. If your septum has severely deviated, it can restrict airflow into your nostrils and cause breathing difficulties.

 

When usual medications such as nasal sprays and antihistamines don’t work, your doctor might suggest surgery to correct a deviated septum. Talk to a trusted healthcare expert about undergoing rhinoplasty or septoplasty and decide if it’s the right choice for you.


Chronic Sinusitis


When your sinuses are swollen and inflamed for longer than three months despite undergoing treatment, chances are you have chronic sinusitis. This is a common condition that can affect both adults and children alike. Chronic sinusitis can be caused by infections in your nasal passage, exposure to allergens, and the growth of nasal polyps on your sinuses. If home remedies and over-the-counter medication haven't worked, talk to your doctor about the treatment options available to you.


Nasal Polyps

Nasal polyps are soft, noncancerous growths on your sinuses caused by inflammation in your nasal passage. They’re painless growths that usually occur in people in their 30s and 40s.

 

Steroid sprays are prescribed to shrink the polyps and reduce symptoms. However, when they don’t work, you may have to undergo endoscopic sinus surgery to have them removed.

 

 

 

If you’re experiencing frequent troubles with your nose, contact our experts at ENT Medical and Surgical Group. Whether you’re experiencing a stuffy nose or a persistent mouth sore, you can rely on our over 25 years of proven experience to bring you relief. We are dedicated to providing the best possible patient experience to you. Call us at (203) 752-1726 or contact us online! 




A woman in a white sweater suffering from blocked ears is looking down with her eyes closed.

How to Unblock an Ear During a Cold

December 28, 2024
A blocked ear is a common problem during or after a cold. It can make hearing muffled, cause discomfort, and sometimes lead to dizziness. This happens because colds can affect the eustachian tube, a small canal connecting the middle ear to the back of the throat. When the tube becomes inflamed or clogged with mucus, it disrupts the normal pressure in the ear, causing that blocked feeling. If you’re dealing with this, here’s how to address it safely and effectively.
A woman is laying in bed blowing her nose into a napkin.

How Long Do Sinus Infections Last?

December 10, 2024
A sinus infection, or sinusitis, occurs when the tissues lining the sinuses become swollen or inflamed. This inflammation can cause blockages and lead to nasal congestion, facial pain, pressure, and a stuffy nose. The infection can be triggered by viruses, bacteria, fungi, or allergens. Knowing how long it lasts and the factors influencing its duration can help individuals manage their symptoms effectively.
A woman is sitting on a couch wrapped in a blanket.

Effective Remedies to Relieve a Sore Throat

November 29, 2024
A sore throat can be irritating and uncomfortable, making simple actions like swallowing or talking challenging. It often accompanies colds, flu, and allergies, causing pain and inflammation in the throat. The good news is that there are effective, simple remedies that can bring relief.
A woman is covering her ears while a man snores in the background.

How to Stop Snoring

November 12, 2024
Snoring is more than just a nighttime issue; it can indicate something is wrong with your body. Many people may brush it off as a harmless habit, but for some, snoring can disrupt sleep patterns, lead to daytime fatigue, and even strain relationships. Moreover, it can sometimes indicate underlying health conditions like sleep apnea. Understanding the reasons behind snoring and finding effective ways to address it can make a big difference in sleep quality and overall well-being.
portrait of a woman experiencing dizziness

How Do You Know If Dizziness Is Serious?

October 29, 2024
Dizziness is something almost everyone experiences at some point. It refers to a sensation of lightheadedness, unsteadiness, or feeling like the world is spinning. It can have many causes, from dehydration to anxiety or even changes in your inner ear. Though uncomfortable, dizziness usually resolves on its own. However, sometimes it can be a sign of a more significant problem.
A doctor is examining a man 's ear with an otoscope.

How To Relieve an Ear Infection

October 15, 2024
Ear infections are common and can cause significant discomfort. They often occur when bacteria or viruses infect the middle ear, leading to inflammation and fluid buildup. While most of them are not serious, they can be painful and disruptive. Knowing how to relieve an ear infection can help alleviate symptoms and prevent complications.
A man is getting a his throat checked.

How To Tell If You Have Tonsillitis

October 4, 2024
Tonsillitis is a condition that involves the inflammation of the tonsils, which are two small glands located at the back of your throat. These glands are part of your immune system and help protect your body from infections. However, when they become inflamed, they can cause a range of uncomfortable symptoms. Recognizing the signs of tonsillitis early on can help you seek appropriate medical treatment.
A woman is sitting in a chair blowing her nose with a napkin.

How To Clear a Stuffed Nose

September 16, 2024
A stuffy nose, also known as nasal congestion, can be frustrating. It makes breathing difficult, disrupts sleep, and can even affect your sense of taste and smell. The good news is that there are various effective strategies to clear congestion and get back to breathing easily.
A woman is sitting on a couch holding a glass of water and a pill.

How to Get Rid of Laryngitis

September 2, 2024
Laryngitis is a common condition that causes inflammation in the larynx, also known as the voice box. Symptoms include a hoarse voice, a sore throat, and sometimes a fever or coughing.
A doctor is examining a child 's throat with a thermometer.

Is Bacterial Tonsillitis Contagious?

August 15, 2024
Tonsillitis, the inflammation of the tonsils, often causes a scratchy or sore throat, making swallowing uncomfortable. It can be a real drag, especially when you're worried about spreading it to others. But is bacterial tonsillitis contagious?
More Posts
Share by: