What Is Congestion Caused By?

Nasal congestion is a symptom in itself. Signs of nasal congestion include: 

• Stuffy nose
• Runny nose
• Sinus pain
• Postnasal drip, which may also cause: 
  • Cough
  • Sore throat
• Heavy feeling in the head

See a doctor if you have nasal congestion and: 

• Swelling of the forehead, eyes, side of the nose, or cheek or that is accompanied by blurry vision
• Throat pain
• White or yellow spots on the tonsils or other parts of the throat
• Nasal discharge 
  • With a bad odor
  • That comes from just one side
  • Is a color other than white or yellow
  • Is accompanied by fever
• A cough that lasts more than 10 days
• Cough that produces yellow-green or gray mucus
• Nasal discharge following a head injury
• Symptoms last more than 3 weeks

The cause of nasal congestion is diagnosed with a patient history and a physical examination that focuses on the ears, nose, throat, and airways.

Tests used to diagnose the cause of the congestion may include:

• Blood tests
• Sputum culture and throat culture
• Allergy skin tests
• X-rays of the sinuses 
• Chest X-ray

Nasal congestion may often be treated with home remedies to ease the symptoms, such as: 

• Drinking plenty of clear fluids 
• Inhaling steam 2 to 4 times a day, such as in the shower
• Nasal wash to help remove mucus from the nose
• Applying a warm, moist washcloth to the face several times a day    
• Using a vaporizer or humidifier
• Use nasal saline spray 3 to 4 times per day
• Use adhesive strips placed on the nose to widen nostrils 
• Keep the head elevated, since congestion is often worse when lying down
• For allergies: 
  • Avoid allergy triggers
  • Prescription nasal sprays
• Over-the-counter (OTC) medications to relieve symptoms 
  • Decongestants to help dry up a runny or stuffy nose
  • Antihistamines to treat allergy symptoms    
  • Nasal sprays to help relieve stuffiness
    • Don't use over-the-counter nasal sprays more than 3 days on and 3 days off, unless directed to do so by your doctor because excess use can worsen congestion