Most of us have experienced the annoyance of a stuffy nose during a cold or allergy flare. But what happens when nasal congestion doesn’t go away? Chronic nasal obstruction is much more than an inconvenience—it can interfere with sleep, exercise, work, and overall quality of life. Understanding the causes of persistent nasal blockage is the first step toward lasting relief.
More Than Just Mucus
A temporary stuffy nose from a cold is usually caused by swelling of the nasal lining and excess mucus. But if your congestion lingers for weeks or months, other problems may be to blame:
- Deviated Septum: The septum is the thin wall of cartilage and bone that separates your nostrils. If it’s crooked—something many people are born with—it can block airflow on one or both sides of the nose.
- Enlarged Turbinates: Turbinates are small structures along the sidewalls of the nose that warm and humidify air. Chronic inflammation from allergies or irritants can cause them to swell, narrowing the nasal passages.
- Nasal Polyps: These soft, benign growths can develop inside the nose and sinuses, obstructing airflow and contributing to sinus infections.
- Chronic Rhinitis: Persistent inflammation due to allergies, irritants, or overuse of decongestant sprays can keep the nose congested long after a cold is gone.
- Nasal Valve Collapse: The narrowest part of the nasal airway can weaken or collapse inward when you inhale, especially during exercise or sleep.
Why It Matters
Chronic nasal obstruction doesn’t just make you feel stuffy. It forces you to breathe through your mouth, leading to:
- Poor sleep and snoring
- Dry mouth and sore throat
- Reduced sense of smell
- Fatigue and difficulty concentrating
- Worsening of asthma or other respiratory conditions
If you find yourself constantly congested or relying on nasal sprays just to breathe, it’s time to see a specialist.
How It’s Diagnosed
An evaluation usually starts with a careful history and nasal exam. Your doctor may use a small camera (nasal endoscope) to see inside your nose or order imaging studies like a CT scan to look for hidden blockages. Allergy testing may also help identify triggers.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the underlying cause:
- Medications: Nasal steroid sprays, antihistamines, or saline rinses can reduce inflammation and improve airflow.
- Allergy Management: Avoiding triggers and, in some cases, starting immunotherapy.
- Procedures: For structural blockages, procedures such as septoplasty (to straighten the septum), turbinate reduction, or removal of nasal polyps can significantly improve breathing.
- Support for Nasal Valve Collapse: Special nasal strips or internal nasal implants may help keep the airway open.
Breathe Easier
A stuffy nose that won’t go away is never just “normal.” If congestion is disrupting your daily life or sleep, talk to an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist. With the right diagnosis and treatment plan, you can finally breathe freely again—day and night
We offer the full range of medical, surgical, and minimally invasive treatment options. Same-day appointments are available.
Call us at 610-415-1100.