Otorhinolaryngology

Chronic Nasal Congestion: Causes, Symptoms, and When to See an ENT Specialist.

Why nasal congestion shouldn’t be considered normal and when to seek timely care.

Chronic Nasal Congestion: Causes, Symptoms, and When to See an ENT Specialist.

Chronic nasal congestion is more than just having a “stuffy nose.” When nasal blockage lasts for weeks or even months, it may indicate an underlying condition affecting your breathing, sleep, and overall quality of life. Breathing through your nose is essential for good sleep, proper oxygenation, and daily comfort; recognizing when this symptom requires medical attention can make a significant difference.

What Is Chronic Nasal Congestion?

Nasal congestion occurs when the tissues lining the nose become inflamed or blocked, preventing normal airflow. When this symptom persists—generally for more than 12 weeks—it is considered chronic and is often associated with underlying conditions that require specialized medical evaluation.

Unlike congestion related to the common cold or seasonal allergies, chronic nasal congestion does not resolve easily with temporary treatments and may interfere with daily activities or sleep.

Common Causes.

Chronic nasal congestion can have several causes, including:

Allergic rhinitis: inflammation of the nasal lining caused by allergens such as dust, mold, or pollen
Chronic sinusitis: prolonged inflammation of the sinuses with mucus that does not drain properly
Deviated nasal septum: displacement or irregularity of the nasal wall that obstructs airflow
Nasal polyps: benign growths inside the nasal cavities that block airflow
Environmental irritants: smoke, very dry air, or pollution that maintain nasal swelling

Symptoms That Often Accompany Persistent Congestion.

In addition to a blocked nose, it is common to experience:

Difficulty breathing through the nose
Constant nasal discharge or mucus
Facial pressure or pain
Reduced sense of smell
Mouth breathing or snoring
Poor sleep or interrupted rest

If these symptoms persist for weeks, they should not be considered normal, as they may indicate a condition that requires professional treatment.

When Should You See an Otolaryngologist (ENT)?

Consult a specialist if:

Nasal congestion lasts more than 8–12 weeks without improvement
You experience strong or persistent facial pain
You notice a loss of smell or taste
Breathing difficulty affects your sleep or daily activities
You have tried treatments without lasting relief

An ENT specialist can identify the specific cause of your chronic nasal congestion and recommend the most appropriate treatment.

How Is It Diagnosed?

To reach an accurate diagnosis, your specialist may:

Review your medical history and symptoms
Perform a physical examination of the nose and sinuses
Use tools such as nasal endoscopy or imaging studies if needed

This helps differentiate between causes such as allergies, chronic inflammation, or structural abnormalities and allows for a tailored treatment plan.

Treatment Options.

Treatment depends on the identified cause and may include:

Topical or systemic medications to reduce inflammation
Antihistamines or allergy treatments
Saline nasal rinses
Procedures or surgery in cases of nasal polyps or significant septal deviation

Following a personalized treatment plan can improve breathing and reduce symptoms over time.

Chronic nasal congestion should not be considered normal. If it is affecting your daily life, sleep, or breathing, seeking specialized care is important. Early diagnosis can help you breathe better and prevent long-term complications.

Schedule your appointment at BlueNet Hospitals with an ENT specialist via WhatsApp: +52 624 151 0693