What Causes Stuffy Noses?
Nasal congestion occurs when inflammation causes nasal tissues and blood vessels around the nose to swell. Treatment of nasal congestion may depend upon the cause, but antihistamines and nasal decongestants may provide relief. Increasing fluids, using a humidifier and gently blowing your nose to relieve stuffiness may also help.
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Sinusitis
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Sinusitis is a common cause of nasal congestion, according to the Mayo Clinic. Sinusitis occurs when the sinuses become swollen, trapping mucus and causing congestion. Other symptoms may include swelling and pain around the eyes and cheek bones, a yellow discharge from the nose and pain in the teeth and jaw. In addition, individuals suffering from sinusitis may have a cough, as well as fever and extreme tiredness. Treatment usually involves over-the-counter saline sprays, decongestants and pain relievers.
Common Cold
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Nasal congestion is often caused by the common cold. Caused by a virus, the common cold causes a sore throat, body aches, sneezing and headache. Individuals suffering from a cold may also run a low fever. Treatment includes over-the-counter pain relievers as well as cough syrups and lozenges to ease a sore throat. The Mayo Clinic also suggests using decongestant nasal sprays, drinking more fluids and resting.
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Influenza
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Influenza, or the flu, also counts nasal congestion or stuffy nose as a symptom. Like the cold, the flu is caused by a virus. Flu symptoms may include a fever of 100 degrees Fahrenheit or higher, as well as a cough. Headache and painful body aches are also common symptoms associated with the flu.
Allergies
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Allergies, such as an allergy to pets, causes nasal congestion. Symptoms of animal allergies include sneezing and a runny nose. Individuals allergic to pets may also experience itchy and irritated eyes, nose and throat. Individuals who suffer from asthma will find that their symptoms worsen when they are around pets. An allergy to pets may also cause a rash and itching. Treatments include over-the-counter allergy medications, allergy shots and nasal sprays.
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References
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