Congestion,Nasal congestion

Nasal congestion refers to a blockage of mucus in the nasal passages or sinus cavities and is often caused by inflamed or swollen blood vessels within the mucus membranes. Viruses and bacteria can also cause nasal congestion.
When mucus is blocked or trapped in the sinus cavities, pressure within these cavities begins to increase. As all the exit pathways are blocked by inflamed membranes, the increased pressure has no where to escape. This can lead to increased feelings of pressure in the facial area as well as the ears and an accompanying hearing loss. In certain cases of nasal congestion, a person may complain of hearing ringing or hissing sounds in their ears. This is a condition known as tinnitus.
Nasal congestion can become a very serious condition in newly born infants and those that are breast fed. It is also one of the main causes of snoring and in adults can lead to sleep apnea.
Should you experience facial swelling of blurry vision as a result of congestion, please visit your nearest GP or Doctor immediately.

Causes of Nasal Congestion

• Allergies such as hayfever
• Untreated cold or flu’s
• A sinus infection or sinusitis
• A deviated nasal septum may make it hard for mucus to drain.
• Hormonal fluctuations. These may be natural due to normal body changes or due to medications.
• Large nasal polyps can affect the proper drainage of mucus from the nasal passages.
• Rhinitis (Runny nose)

How to treat Nasal Congestion?

One of the main aims when treating congestion is to promote the thinning out or liquefying of thick, sticky mucus out of the nasal passages and sinus cavities. This can be achieved in a number of ways:

• Drink lots of fluids as this helps to dilute thick mucus
• Get adequate rest and relaxation
• Lying down often makes it harder for mucus to drain. Try raising ones head to ensure optimal drainage is received when sleeping.
• Nasal decongestants
• Netti pots or nasal aspirators using a saline solution
• Humidifiers