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ENT Conditions > Nose

Nasal congestion

Nasal congestion, or a 'stuffy', 'blocked' or 'bunged up' nose, is one of the most common conditions often associated with colds, allergies or sinus problems.

It is caused by the membrane lining of the nose becoming inflamed and irritated, and thus an accumulation of excess mucus builds up. When the lining of the nose swells the airways become narrower and more easily blocked with mucus, making it difficult to breath through the nose.

Symptoms may include feeling 'stuffed up', having a totally blocked nose or a nose that is blocked but runs continually, breathing through the mouth which often becomes dry, sneezing and mild headaches and a feeling of pressure over the sinuses (above and around the eyes). If untreated, nasal congestion may develop into conditions such as sinusitis.