What happens when our nose is congested?
Most of us think we get a blocked nose as a result of a build-up of excess mucus. Actually, it’s the swelling of the nasal lining that leads to nasal congestion. Viruses and bacteria, or allergens like dust and pollen, can all cause inflammation in the nasal passageways, which in turn produces swelling that reduces or even blocks the airflow through the nostrils.
Having a blocked nose – with or without cold symptoms – can be a real drag on our energy, especially if it persists over time. It not only interferes with our daytime activities, leaving us feeling thick-headed and slightly breathless, it keeps us awake at night, as well.
What causes persistent nasal congestion?
Causes of a long-term blocked nose include:
- Allergic rhinitis – This is an allergic reaction to air-borne particles produced by dust mites, pollen, pets or other allergens. If you notice that your blocked nose is worse in certain environments or during certain seasons, then it could be you are suffering from allergic rhinitis.
- Non-allergic rhinitis: these would include:
- Smoking – Every time you smoke, you irritate your nasal lining, so if you smoke every day, your nose can feel constantly blocked.
- Air pollution – research has shown that chronic exposure to air pollution can irritate your airways, causing inflammation and compromising your nose’s natural function to filter air and remove the mucus.
Other causes of a long-term blocked nose include:
- Nasal polyps – If you’ve had a blocked nose for several weeks it could be you have nasal polyps – small growths of tissue in your nasal passage that can block airflow. Polyps aren’t harmful, but it’s a good idea to have them examined by your doctor as there may be a case for removing them.
- Deviated septum – The nasal septum is the cartilage sitting between the two nostrils. Normally, it divides the nose almost equally in two, but with some people, the septum lies off to the side. This can make one nostril feel more blocked than the other.
- Obstruction, in some cases doctor advice is needed – Young children have a habit of pushing random objects up their nose. So, if your child has been complaining about a blocked nose for a while, you could check they haven’t lodged something up their nose!
How can I prevent persistent nasal congestion?
Here are some steps you can take to help prevent or reduce nasal congestion all year round:
1. For cold and flu, maintain a good hygiene:
- wash your hands frequently
- avoid sharing drinking glasses or utensils
- avoid touching your eyes or nose as this can let the virus in
2. You can look to take the following steps at home to help manage persistent nasal congestion:
- Nasal washes: these can keep the natural protective function of the mucous lining intact
- Keep your head elevated: when you are lying flat, it is more difficult for gravity to help drain mucus out of your nasal passages
- Identify allergens: if you know that certain situations trigger your symptoms, then take steps to reduce exposure to the allergen and see if your symptom improves
How can I relieve frequent nasal congestion with Otrivine?
Otrivine Natural Daily Nasal Wash is a preservative-free nasal spray that gently and naturally cleanses nasal airways and helps restore your nose’s filtering ability against everyday air pollution and allergens. Cleanse and restore your nose everyday so you can breathe clean.
Otrivine Natural with Eucalyptus is a clinically proven natural nasal decongestant which provides effective, natural relief from nasal congestion (blocked or stuffy nose). This is due to the high concentration of sea salts (2.2%). If symptoms persist beyond seven days consult a healthcare professional. Only applicable for Eucalyptus.
