What Is the Feeling of Congestion?

Causes of nasal congestion include: 

• Viruses
  • Common cold
  • Influenza
  • COVID-19
• Sinus infection
• Hay fever or other allergies
• Nasal polyps
• Using some over-the-counter (OTC) nasal sprays or drops for more than 3 days     
• Pregnancy
• Vasomotor rhinitis

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
• Allergy skin tests
• X-rays of the sinuses or chest
• Sputum culture and throat culture

Nasal congestion can often be treated at home. Home remedies to ease the symptoms of nasal congestion include: 

• Drink plenty of clear fluids 
• Apply a warm, moist washcloth to the face several times a day    
• Inhale steam 2 to 4 times a day, such as in the shower
• Use a vaporizer or humidifier
• Nasal wash to help remove mucus from the nose
• Use nasal saline spray 3 to 4 times per day
• Keep your head elevated, since congestion is often worse when lying down
• Use adhesive strips placed on the nose to widen nostrils 
• For allergies: 
  • Avoid allergy triggers
  • Prescription nasal sprays
• Take over-the-counter (OTC) medications to relieve symptoms 
  • Decongestants to dry up a runny or stuffy nose
  • Antihistamines to treat allergy symptoms    
  • Nasal sprays to 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