Nasal congestion or a ‘blocked nose’ as we commonly call it is a disorder which occurs when tissues and blood vessels lining the nose become inflamed and swollen, producing excess mucus. This gives rise to a stuffy feeling, which can be quite an annoyance for both adults and children. While nasal congestion just causes discomfort for adults and older children, a blocked nose in infants can be serious as it hinders their ability to breathe and nurse.

Like the cough, nasal congestion is not a disease in itself, but is rather a symptom of another disorder which can cause inflammation of the nasal tissues. Diseases due to infections, such as sinusitis, influenza or the common cold, or disorders triggered by allergies, such as allergic rhinitis result in irritation of nasal tissue and consequent blocking of the nose. Besides these, nasal polyps, pregnancy, food allergies, hormonal changes in the body, stress and thyroid problems are other causes of a stuffy nose. Sometimes, excessive use of decongestant nasal sprays can also have a counter effect and aggravate a blocked nose.

Congestion of the nose is common in cold temperatures, likely because of the accompanying dryness with the cold weather. This makes drier nasal linings more susceptible to getting irritated by foreign material and more likely to get infected.

When to seek expert advise

A blocked nose in an infant must not be ignored. If you suspect that your infant child is having difficulty breathing due to a stuffy nose, you must consult a paediatrician working with the Department of Paediatrics at The Aga Khan University Hospital to get an expert medical opinion.

Moreover, if your symptoms persist for over a week, it is also a cause for concern and you must seek professional advice from your doctor. Other warning signs of a blocked nose which need medical attention include:

High fever accompanying a congested nose.
Bloody or coloured discharge from the nose.
Severe difficulty in breathing.

Our staff at the Section of Otolaryngology is committed to providing you with quality healthcare, striving to make sure your experience at The Aga Khan University Hospital is completely satisfactory. You can discuss your symptoms in complete confidence with your doctor to start a specialized treatment plan for you.

Disclaimer

The information provided on our website is for educational purposes and not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. You should always seek the advice of your doctor or other healthcare professional provider.