A  congested nose, also known as a stuffy nose, can be a little uncomfortable. It at times changes one’s voice and also affects the way they breathe. 

You could probably think a stuffy nose is a result of too much mucus in the nasal passages, however, health experts say that a blocked nose is actually caused by inflamed blood vessels in the sinuses. 

These irritated vessels are usually prompted by a cold, the flu, allergies, or a sinus infection.

Dr Joseph Ryarasa Nkurunziza, the Chairperson of Health Development Initiative Rwanda-HDI states that nasal congestion is the term used to refer to the blockage of the nose, which prevents the flow of air in and out of the nose. 

He notes that some of the most common signs and symptoms may include; difficulty in breathing, swollen air passage which can also lead to mucus build-up which is often yellowish. In addition, the congestion could also lead to headaches, fever and discomfort around the forehead and eyes.

In children, he says, a stuffy nose can be detected if the baby finds trouble feeding or having a reduced appetite, increased agitation, trouble breathing or choking on mucus, interrupted sleep or trouble falling asleep, among others.

Managing a nasal congestion

Nkurunziza stresses that nasal congestion can be managed in two ways; through natural remedies such as inhaling steam by pouring hot or boiled water in a basin or bucket and drinking lots of fluids.

In case these natural remedies don’t work, one can seek medical treatment of which prescriptions for nasal sprays, antihistamines, and antibiotics are prescribed by doctors, he adds.

According to Healthline, keep the fluids flowing when your nose is stuffed up. Almost all liquids can help keep you hydrated when you’re sick, including water, and even juice. They help thin the mucus in your nasal passages, pushing the fluids out of your nose and decreasing the pressure in your sinuses. Less pressure means less inflammation and irritation.

"If your stuffy nose is accompanied by a sore throat, warm tea and soup will help ease the discomfort in your throat, too.”

How long should nasal congestion last?

Nkurunziza stresses that initially, nasal congestion should last between 5 to 10 days. If it lasts for more than 10 days, it is advisable to seek medical attention most especially if the discharge is yellowish and there are traces of blood and or fever.

If the nasal congestion results from a bacterial infection, the doctor may prescribe antibiotics for 10 to 14 days, but the congestion may clear within seven days. Still, it is vital to take the full course of antibiotics.

Is it a symptom of Covid-19?

According to a recent World Health Organization -WHO analysis, only five per cent of people with novel coronavirus infections experience a stuffy nose as a result. More commonly reported symptoms include; a dry cough, unexplained exhaustion, coughing up thick mucus from the lungs.

Nasal congestion home remedies

You could be perturbed on the immediate solutions in case of a stuffy nose at home. Medical News Today states that to clear a stuffy nose at home, you can take a warm shower, inhale steam from a bowl of hot water, with a towel over the head to trap in the steam, and keep the head elevated while sleeping.

"Take over-the-counter (OTC) antihistamines or decongestants, try nasal rinses, take OTC pain relief medications, if there is sinus pressure or pain, apply a cold compress to painful areas of the face, take prophylactic probiotics or consume probiotic-rich foods, such as yogurt, take supplements that boost immunity, such as zinc sulfate, echinacea, vitamin C, or geranium extract.”

Prevention

The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America notes that doing the following can reduce a person’s reaction to allergens and risk of infection; washing the hands frequently with soap and water, washing bed linens regularly in hot water and detergent, keeping the windows and doors closed during high pollen and mould seasons.

But also, using dust mite covers for pillows, comforters, mattresses, and box springs, vacuuming frequently, avoiding close contact with people who are ill.