Nasal congestion can negatively affect daily life and lead to more serious complications if not treated appropriately. Medications such as nasal sprays, nasal wash techniques, moisturizers, antihistamines, or decongestants often provide temporary relief. However, in the case of chronic or severe nasal congestion, it is important to consult a healthcare professional and diagnose the underlying cause.
Why is the nose blocked?
Nasal congestion can sometimes be a temporary condition and resolves on its own. However, in the case of chronic or severe nasal congestion, it is important to consult a healthcare professional and identify the underlying cause. In this way, an appropriate treatment plan can be established and symptom relief can be achieved. Nasal congestion can occur for many different reasons. Here are some of the common causes of nasal congestion:
- Cold and flu: Upper respiratory tract infections, one of the most common causes, can lead to nasal congestion. Viruses irritate the mucous membrane in the nose, runny nose and congestion occur.
- Sinusitis: Sinusitis can occur as a result of inflammation of the sinuses. Sinusitis may present with symptoms such as nasal congestion, facial pain, pressure and headache.
- Allergic reactions: People who are sensitive to allergens such as pollen, dust mites, mold or pet dander may develop nasal congestion and allergic rhinitis. This condition is often accompanied by sneezing, itchy eyes, and a runny nose.
- Nasal polyps: Nasal polyps, which are small, soft-tissue growths that form in the nasal cavity, can cause nasal congestion. These polyps may be associated with conditions such as allergic reactions, chronic sinusitis, or asthma.
- Nasal septum curvature: Nasal septum can cause nasal congestion if the cartilage and bone structure that divides the nasal cavity into two parts is not smooth.
- Pregnancy: Changes in hormone levels during pregnancy can lead to swelling of the nasal mucosa and nasal congestion.
- Medicines: Some medications, especially nasal decongestants used in the form of drops or sprays, can cause nasal congestion when used for a long time.
You can try some solutions for nasal congestion to relieve nasal congestion. However, if nasal congestion persists for a long time, becomes severe, or occurs with other symptoms, it is important to consult a healthcare professional. Your doctor will identify the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment options for you. There are some methods and treatments that can be good for nasal congestion. Things that open the nose that you can use in suggestions for solutions to nasal congestion:
- Nose wash: Nasal irrigation with a saline solution is an effective method to relieve nasal congestion. It is possible to clear the nasal cavity and unclog using a nasal spray or nasal irrigation devices.
- Steam inhalation: You can get help from steam to open nasal congestion. Steam inhalation can relieve nasal congestion by moistening the nose and airways of hot water vapor. Taking a steam bath or using a steam machine can be used for this purpose.
- Moistening: Being in a humid environment and using a humidifier can reduce nasal congestion by moisturizing the nasal mucosa. Humidifiers or air humidifiers can be used.
- Decongestant sprays: Decongestant sprays, available from pharmaceutical pharmacies, can temporarily relieve nasal congestion. However, long-term use of these sprays should be avoided because they can cause addiction.
- Allergy treatment: If nasal congestion is caused by allergic reactions, allergy treatment may be considered. Treatment methods such as antihistamines or allergy shots can reduce allergic symptoms and nasal congestion.
- Relaxing position: Supporting your head with a high pillow or standing upright while lying down can relieve nasal congestion. In this way, nasal flow becomes easier.
- Hot drinks: Drinking liquids such as hot tea or herbal tea can relieve nasal congestion and provide relief.
Unilateral nasal congestion refers to the condition in which only one nostril is blocked. This condition is usually caused by an underlying cause that leads to a blockage in a nasal passage. It is important to consult a doctor if unilateral nasal congestion persists in a chronic or severe form or is accompanied by other symptoms. Your doctor will diagnose the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment methods for you. Here are some suggestions for dealing with one-sided nasal congestion:
- Nasal washing with salt water is an effective method to relieve nasal congestion. If you have unilateral congestion, it is important to clear this area by drawing more water from the blocked nostril.
- Steam made by inhaling hot water vapor can be good for one-sided nasal congestion. Steam helps to relieve congestion by moisturizing the nasal mucosa.
- Being in a humid environment and using an air humidifier moisturizes the nasal mucosa and can relieve unilateral congestion.
- Decongestant sprays can temporarily relieve unilateral nasal congestion. However, their long-term use can cause addiction, so follow your doctor’s instructions.
If there is an underlying cause of unilateral nasal congestion, it is important to treat this cause. For problems such as nasal polyps, curvature of the nasal septum, or sinus infections, consult a healthcare professional to learn about appropriate treatment options.