Nasal Block Treatment Options Explained
Know about nose block, causes, various treatments, diagnosis, symptoms and how it affects your health.
Introduction
A blocked nose, also known as nasal congestion, is a common issue that most people experience at some point in their lives. Whether it's due to a cold, allergies, or other underlying conditions, a stuffy nose can make breathing difficult and affect your daily life. The good news is that there are several effective treatment options available to relieve nasal congestion.
In this article, we’ll explore the causes, symptoms, and various ways to treat a nasal block—from simple home remedies to medical treatments.
Consult ENT specialist for Personalised Advice
What Causes Nasal Block?
Nasal congestion occurs when the tissues and blood vessels inside your nose become swollen due to excess mucus buildup.
Common causes include:
- Common cold or flu – Viral infections often lead to a stuffy nose.
- Allergies (allergic rhinitis) – Pollen, dust, pet dander, or mold can trigger nasal congestion.
- Sinus infections (sinusitis) – Inflammation of the sinuses can block the nasal passages.
- Deviated nasal septum – A crooked nasal wall can obstruct airflow.
- Nasal polyps – Non-cancerous growths inside the nose that cause blockage.
- Dry air or irritants – Smoke, pollution, or strong odours can irritate nasal passages.
- Pregnancy rhinitis – Hormonal changes during pregnancy may cause congestion.
Symptoms of Nasal Block
A blocked nose can come with other uncomfortable symptoms, such as:
- Difficulty breathing through the nose
- Runny nose or postnasal drip (mucus dripping down the throat)
- Sneezing
- Headache or facial pressure
- Reduced sense of smell and taste
- Snoring or disturbed sleep
If nasal congestion lasts more than 10 days or is accompanied by fever, severe headache, or thick yellow/green mucus, consult a doctor, as it may indicate a bacterial infection.
Effective Nasal Block Treatment Options
1. Home Remedies
Before reaching for medications, try these natural ways to ease nasal congestion:
- Steam Inhalation – Breathing in steam from hot water can loosen mucus. Add a few drops of eucalyptus oil for better relief.
- Saline Nasal Spray/Drops – A saltwater solution helps moisturise nasal passages and clear mucus.
- Warm Compress – Placing a warm cloth over your nose and forehead can reduce swelling.
- Hydration – Drinking warm fluids like herbal tea, broth, or warm water helps thin mucus.
- Humidifier – Adding moisture to the air prevents dryness in the nasal passages.
- Elevate Your Head While Sleeping – Propping up your head with an extra pillow can improve nighttime breathing.
2. Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medications
If home remedies don’t provide enough relief, consider these OTC options:
- Decongestant Nasal Sprays (Oxymetazoline, Phenylephrine) – Provide quick relief by shrinking swollen blood vessels. (Use for no more than 3 days to avoid rebound congestion.)
- Oral Decongestants (Pseudoephedrine, Phenylephrine) – Help reduce nasal swelling but may cause side effects like increased heart rate.
- Antihistamines (Cetirizine, Loratadine) – Useful for allergy-related congestion.
- Pain Relievers (Ibuprofen, Paracetamol) – Can ease headaches or sinus pressure.
3. Prescription Treatments
For chronic or severe nasal congestion, a doctor may recommend:
- Steroid Nasal Sprays (Fluticasone, Mometasone) – Reduce inflammation in allergies or sinusitis.
- Antibiotics – Needed if a bacterial sinus infection is present.
- Allergy Shots (Immunotherapy) – For long-term allergy relief.
- Surgery – In cases of deviated septum, nasal polyps, or chronic sinusitis, procedures like septoplasty or endoscopic sinus surgery may be required.
Lifestyle & Prevention Tips
To prevent frequent nasal congestion:
- Avoid allergens – Keep windows closed during high pollen seasons, use air purifiers, and wash bedding regularly.
- Stay hydrated – Drink plenty of fluids to keep mucus thin.
- Quit smoking – Smoke irritates the nasal passages and worsens congestion.
- Use a saline rinse – A neti pot or saline spray helps flush out irritants.
- Maintain good hygiene – Wash hands frequently to avoid infections.
When to See a Doctor?
Most nasal blocks resolve on their own, but seek medical help if you experience:
- Persistent congestion beyond 10-14 days
- High fever or severe headache
- Thick, discoloured nasal discharge
- Difficulty breathing or wheezing
- Nasal bleeding or unexplained weight loss
Final Thoughts
A blocked nose can be annoying, but with the right approach, whether through home remedies, medications, or medical treatments, you can breathe freely again. If symptoms persist, don’t hesitate to consult a doctor for proper evaluation and care.
Consult ENT specialist for Personalised Advice
Consult ENT specialist for Personalised Advice
Dr. Nishant Rana
Ent Specialist
8 Years • MBBS. MS ENT
Delhi
Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, Delhi
Dr. Chanchal Pal
Ent Specialist
36 Years • MBBS, MS (ENT, Head & Neck), PG Certificate (Hospital Administration)
Delhi
Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, Delhi
(50+ Patients)
Dr. Meenakshi Venugopalan
Ent Specialist
14 Years • MBBS, DLO Otorhinolaryngology
Bengaluru
Shree Manyata Hospitals, Bengaluru
Dr. Bhethala Sharan Prakash
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
5 Years • MBBS MD
Bengaluru
PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru
Dr. Saumya Saurabh
Ent Specialist
6 Years • MBBS, DNB, ENT
New Delhi
Maple Care, New Delhi
Consult ENT specialist for Personalised Advice
Dr. Nishant Rana
Ent Specialist
8 Years • MBBS. MS ENT
Delhi
Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, Delhi
Dr. Chanchal Pal
Ent Specialist
36 Years • MBBS, MS (ENT, Head & Neck), PG Certificate (Hospital Administration)
Delhi
Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, Delhi
(50+ Patients)
Dr. Meenakshi Venugopalan
Ent Specialist
14 Years • MBBS, DLO Otorhinolaryngology
Bengaluru
Shree Manyata Hospitals, Bengaluru
Dr. Bhethala Sharan Prakash
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
5 Years • MBBS MD
Bengaluru
PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru
Dr. Saumya Saurabh
Ent Specialist
6 Years • MBBS, DNB, ENT
New Delhi
Maple Care, New Delhi
