Nasal Congestion
Nasal congestion is a condition where air flow through the nose decreases. The main factors that cause nasal congestion are the warping of the cartilage structure called septum, colds, enlargement of nasal flesh, sinusitis, allergies and adenoid enlargement.
Reduced air flow due to blocked nose forces the person to breathe through the mouth. When breathing is constantly done through the mouth, it can cause dry mouth, throat irritation and throat infections. Together with these, chronic laryngitis and/or pharyngitis may occur. Chronic laryngitis and/or pharyngitis presents with symptoms such as sore throat, scratchy throat and the need to clear the throat. Nasal congestion can cause fatigue and distraction. The reason for this is mostly poor quality sleep. Obstruction may also be accompanied by symptoms of apnea and snoring. If left untreated, it can progress to heart and lung diseases.
Why is the nose blocked?
The most common causes of nasal congestion in children:
- adenoid enlargement
- Inserting a foreign object into the nose
- cold
- Septum curvature
- Allergy
- Problems such as sinusitis
The most common causes of nasal congestion in adults are:
- Septum curvature
- nasal flesh growth
- cold
- Sinusitis
- Allergy
- Tumors inside the nose
- polyps
Nasal Congestion Treatment
Nasal congestion is also treated by treating the disease or problem that causes nasal congestion. If the person has a deviated septum, it is corrected by surgery and nasal congestion is also eliminated. Or, if there is a blockage caused by the growth of the nasal concha, which we call turbinates, these turbinates are reduced in size with laser and the blockage ends. If it is caused by inflammatory or allergic conditions, drug treatment is usually applied.
How to Clear Nasal Congestion?
During nasal congestion, breathing is done through the mouth. This may cause other problems. Therefore, you should not keep your environment too humid, too cold or too hot. You should drink plenty of water. Water will help open the nose by increasing the fluidity of the secretion that causes congestion. On the other hand, you can add a teaspoon of salt and baking soda to a glass of water, mix it with warm water, and apply this mixture to your nose.
Nasal Congestion in Babies
Nasal congestion bothers babies more than adults. It can disrupt eating habits and lead to additional diseases such as lower respiratory tract infection and ear infection. Our recommendation is, first of all, to keep the area where the baby is located airy. You can try raising your head a little and using breathing aids such as lavender oil. The most effective material is physiological saline. Your baby will feel comfortable when you apply it frequently and abundantly. Physiological saline, which is the most effective treatment method, does not harm your baby. So don't use less, use plenty. Only this way your baby will feel comfortable. If nasal congestion does not relieve, underlying obstructive causes should be investigated.
