3 Reasons You’re Always Congested

Does it always feel like you’re breathing through a straw? While a short-lived stuffy nose typically indicates a minor illness, one that lingers for weeks or months may be a sign of an underlying medical problem.

At ENT New York, board-certified otolaryngologist Vandana Kumra, MD, specializes in diagnosing and treating the root causes of chronic nasal congestion. With her expertise and personalized approach, Dr. Kumra can help you find relief.

Congestion occurs when the nasal passages become swollen and inflamed. The swelling narrows the airways, making it difficult to breathe through the nose. Chronic nasal congestion can lead to uncomfortable symptoms, such as trouble sleeping, sinus pain, and headaches.

Let’s look at the top three reasons you’re always congested and explore possible solutions.

1. Allergies

When you come into contact with an allergen, your immune system releases histamine and other chemicals that cause inflammation in your nasal passages. This inflammation results in symptoms like a stuffy or runny nose, sneezing, and itchy eyes.

Common allergens that can cause nasal congestion include:

• Pollen
• Dust mites
• Pet dander
• Mold
• Certain foods
• Certain medications

If you suspect allergies are behind your chronic congestion, an allergy consultation with Dr. Kumra can identify the specific allergens triggering your symptoms. Once you know what you’re allergic to, you can take steps to avoid exposure and manage your symptoms with medication or immunotherapy.

2. Nasal polyps

Nasal polyps are small, noncancerous growths that can form in the lining of your nasal passages or sinuses. Chronic inflammation associated with allergies, asthma, or recurring infections is typically the culprit.

These symptoms indicate that your persistent congestion may be due to nasal polyps:

• Loss of sense of smell/taste
• Runny nose
• Post-nasal drip
• Facial pressure or pain
• Snoring or sleep apnea

If you have nasal polyps, Dr. Kumra may recommend medication, such as corticosteroid pills, shots, or nasal spray, to shrink the growths and improve your symptoms. In some cases, sinus surgery may be necessary to remove the polyps.

3. Chronic sinusitis

Chronic sinusitis occurs when the sinuses become inflamed and swollen, leading to a stuffy nose and facial discomfort. The persistent inflammation can prevent mucus from draining properly, often resulting in a lingering infection and constant congestion.

Allergies, polyps, and recurring infections can all lead to chronic sinusitis. It may also stem from structural abnormalities in the nose, such as a deviated septum, narrowed nasal passages, or, in rare cases, a tumor.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 29 million Americans deal with chronic sinusitis. Besides constantly feeling congested, your symptoms may include:

• Facial pain and swelling
• Runny nose
• Reduced sense of smell/taste
• Headache
• Ear or tooth pain
• Bad breath
• Fatigue

Dr. Kumra may prescribe medications such as a nasal decongestant, corticosteroid, or antibiotic to treat chronic sinusitis. Flushing your sinuses with saline solution can also help clear mucus and reduce inflammation.

Endoscopic sinus surgery may be necessary in severe cases to correct structural abnormalities or drain the sinuses. Dr. Kumra performs this minimally invasive surgery through the nostril.

While chronic congestion can be frustrating and uncomfortable, it doesn’t have to be your new normal. To find out what’s causing your stuffy nose, call or click online to make an appointment at ENT New York.