Nasal congestion or “stuffy nose” occurs when nasal and adjacent tissues and blood vessels become swollen with excess fluid causing a “stuffy,” plugged feeling.

Nasal congestion can be caused by anything that irritates or inflames the nasal tissues. Infections – such as colds, flu or sinusitis and allergies are frequent causes of nasal congestion and runny nose. For adults, talk to a health care professional if:

• You have blood in your nasal discharge or a persistent clear discharge after a head injury.
• You have a high fever.
• Your nasal discharge is yellow or green and you also have sinus pain or fever. This may be a sign of a bacterial infection.
• Your symptoms last more than ten days.

For children, talk to a health care professional if:

• Your baby's runny nose or congestion causes trouble nursing or makes breathing difficult.
• Your child is younger than two months and has a fever.

Treatment

Until you see your doctor, try these steps to relieve symptoms:

• Avoid known allergic triggers.
• For babies and small children, use a soft, rubber-bulb syringe to gently remove any secretions.
• If your runny nose is a persistent, watery discharge, particularly if you're also sneezing and have itchy or watery eyes, your symptoms may be allergy-related, and an over-the-counter antihistamine may help. Be sure to follow the label instructions exactly.
• Try sniffing and swallowing or gently blowing your nose.

To relieve postnasal drip when excess saliva (mucus) builds up in the back of your throat, try these measures:

• Avoid common irritants such as cigarette smoke and sudden humidity changes.
• Drink plenty of water because fluid helps thin nasal secretions.
• Try nasal saline sprays or rinses.