A nose block is one of the most common ailments that can affect people of all ages across the globe. Studies indicate that almost all people suffer from a nose blockage at some time or the other in their lives. Most people associate a nasal block with either common cold, or a case of sinusitis. However, while the cold is the most common cause of the nose being blocked, it is not the only cause. Therefore, it is not uncommon to see people suffering from a blocked nose with no mucus present. The main factor that leads to the nose block is in inflammation in the mucosa, also known as the nasal lining. The most common cause of a chronic nasal block is allergic rhinitis.
Causes: When a person suffers from allergic rhinitis, there is a swelling in the nasal membranes, which increases the production of water. Some times the membranes may get swollen to such an extent that the air cannot flow into and out of the nasal passage, without a lot of difficulty. Hence, the person who has been affected by this condition experiences a feeling of a blocked nose, in spite of the fact that there is no cold. However, in case the nose has been blocked because of allergic rhinitis, then the signs and symptoms that are associated with it are sneezing and nasal discharge.Another common factor that could be the cause of a chronic nose block is nasal polyps. These can be described as fleshy growths that are generally benign and appear in the form of an exaggerated inflammatory swelling in the membranes. If any of these fleshy growths or nasal polyps causes an obstruction in the nasal passage, it could lead to some severe nasal congestion problems. This problem can be marked by the nose blocked on one side only. Another reason for a blocked nose, which is quite common, is the deviated nasal sputum. This condition is generally characterized by the absence of sneezing and nasal discharge. In cases of nose blockage problems caused by deviated nasal sputum, the blockage is always unilateral. In case of a nose block while sleeping, there may be a problem in the structure or composition of the inner nostrils. In some rare cases, a blocked nose without cold could also occur because of trauma, the entrance of a foreign body, the overuse of nasal decongestants or even cancer. A person could also get their nose blocked after eating food that is very cold. This however happens in rare cases.
Therefore, in order to identify the exact cause leading to the nose blockage, it is important to study and analyze the different nose blockage symptoms that have accompanied the problem.
Symptoms: The most common symptom that points out towards a blockage in the nasal passages is difficulty in breathing, due to a stopped-up, stuffy of congested nose. It is very common for people to experience an increase in the discomfort caused by a nose blocked at night. Having the nose blocked when sleeping could keep anybody awake half the night. Fortunately, the problem of the increased nose blockage at night can be reduced by sleeping in an elevated position. People can avoid having their nose blocked when lying down, by sleeping on two pillows or placing one or two bricks at the head of the bed.However, at times, if the condition has been caused by a serious underlying condition, the nose blockage symptoms may include:
- Pain, swelling and redness around the area surrounding the nose
- Nose bleeds
- Numbness in areas of the face or mouth
- Loosening of the teeth
- The presence of a unilateral obstruction
- Vision problems, especially double vision
- Changes in the appearance of the facial bones
- A blocked nose on one side only
In case any of the symptoms that have been mentioned above are evident, then a doctor should be contacted without any further delay.
Solution and Treatment: Although most people suffer from a nose block at some time, it is common for people to look for a cure for nose block, as soon as possible. While adults may be able to deal with the discomforts of this condition, a nose blockage in infants could be very serious and could also have life threatening implications. Similarly care should also be taken when suffering from nose blockage during pregnancy. Therefore, it is best to allow a doctor to conduct a proper examination and the required tests to diagnose this condition correctly, so that the proper treatment can be suggested for the nose blocked due to cold or other reasons. Based on the different causes of the nose block, doctors may suggest treatment options that vary from the use of antihistamines and cortisone sprays to surgical repair and reshaping of the nose. However, not all people, especially children may be able to take medicines or undergo surgery for a nose block. There are several people who prefer trying out different nose blockage remedies, for relief from the condition.
Remedies: There are several home remedies for nose block that can help relieve the symptoms, making it easier for a person to breathe. However, it is important to remember that while a nose block home remedy may bring temporary relief, it may not get rid of the factors that are causing the nose to be blocked all the time. The most effective blocked nose remedy recommended even by doctors is the inhalation of steam. There are several steaming machines that can be used, for this practice. Alternately, it is also possible to take a steam by boiling water in a large pot. This is an effective remedy to treat nose blockage due to cold. The patient then needs to cover the head with a large towel and bend his or her head over the pot, so that the steam gets trapped within. The patient should then inhale the steam deeply to reduce the blockage. Adding a drop of eucalyptus to the steam water can also help open up the blocked nose pores. This remedy is also the best for blocked nose sinuses.
Some of the other most commonly used blocked nose remedies generally include:
- Rubbing a small amount of sesame oil or olive oil directly on the inner side of the nostrils to relive blockage of the nose.
- Placing a humidifier or an ionizer in the room, in order to moisturize the environment
- Eliminating certain foods, especially dairy products like milk and cheese from a diet
- Increasing the consumption of soup, broth and other warm fluids.
Before using any of the nose blockage home remedies mentioned above, it is essential to consult a doctor.
answered by G M