A blocked or stuffy nose can be quite bothersome, hindering your sense of smell, taste, and ability to breathe. It's a prevalent concern voiced by patients during ENT visits, especially when accompanied by nasal discharge. This obstruction occurs when airflow through the nasal passages is limited, often due to anatomical changes or inflammation of the nasal tissues and blood vessels, rather than merely excess mucus as many believe.
A blocked or stuffy nose can result from various factors, including inflammation of nasal tissues, anatomical changes like a deviated septum, infections (colds or sinusitis), allergies, and environmental irritants.
Nasal congestion can hinder your sense of smell and taste and make breathing more difficult, impacting your overall comfort and well-being.
Common triggers include colds, sinusitis, allergies, dry air, cold temperatures, hormonal changes, certain medications, spicy foods, tobacco smoke, and stress.
You should consult a doctor if your nasal congestion persists, is accompanied by severe symptoms or discharge, or affects your quality of life.