Initiation

Nasal congestion is one of the most common symptoms in otorhinolaryngology. While it is usually harmless and temporary in the case of an acute infection, permanently restricted nasal breathing can indicate chronic inflammation or an anatomical cause.

Many people affected use decongestant nasal sprays for months or years — often without lasting improvement. The following applies:
Chronic nasal congestion should always be clarified by an ENT specialist.

What does “nasal congestion” mean medically?

Medically, we speak of a nasal obstruction, i.e. an obstruction of airflow through the nose. This can:

• Appear on one or both sides
• exist permanently or alternately
• Be stronger at night than during the day
• Occur with or without a runny nose

The nose is much more than just a breathing tube: it filters, moisturizes and heats the air you breathe and is essential for the sense of smell. Impaired nasal breathing therefore often has an effect on Sleep, performance, concentration and quality of life off.

Common causes of permanent nasal congestion

1. Chronic sinus infection (chronic rhinosinusitis)

One of the most common causes.

Typical complaints:

• feeling of pressure or bloating on the face
• headaches
• mucous discharge backwards (postnasal drip)
• reduced or lack of sense of smell

You distinguish between shapes with and without nasal polyps — a decisive difference therapeutically.

2. nasal polyps

Nasal polyps are benign mucosal changes that:

• mechanically block nasal breathing
• are often associated with olfactory disorders
• can recur again and again without consistent therapy

They are not just a surgical problem, but an expression of chronic inflammation, which must be treated in the long term.

3. Curved nasal septum (deviated septum)

A crooked nasal septum can:

• cause unilateral nasal breathing obstruction
• Promote infections
• Increase snoring and mouth breathing

Many people have deviated septal tissue — it only requires treatment if there are corresponding symptoms.

4. Allergic and non-allergic rhinitis

Not all nasal congestion is allergic.

Possible causes include:

• classic allergies
• non-allergic rhinitis
• hormonal influences
• drug-related mucosal swelling

Exact differentiation is crucial, as the therapy differs significantly.

5. Excessive use of nasal sprays

Decongestant nasal sprays are very effective in the short term. However, when used for a long time, they often result in:

• habituation
• chronic mucosal swelling
• socalled Medicamentous rhinitis

As a result, the nose gets worse rather than better in the long term.

When should nasal congestion be diagnosed?

An ENT specialist examination is useful for:

• Complaints lasting more than 10—14 days
• unilateral nasal congestion
• accompanying pain, bleeding, or loss of smell
• frequent infections
• lack of effect of drugs

The earlier the cause is identified, the more targeted and often without surgery can be treated.

Modern diagnostics from an ENT specialist

In a specialized ENT clinic, the diagnosis is carried out in a structured and gentle manner.

nasal endoscopy

• painless
• detailed assessment of mucous membranes
• Visualization of polyps, secretions and constrictions

imaging (CT of sinuses)

• only if there is a clear indication
• important for surgery planning or in case of unclear findings

Individual classification

Not every nasal congestion needs the same treatment — The diagnosis determines the path.

Treatment options — individual instead of standard solutions

Conservative therapy

• targeted local medicines
• anti-inflammatory therapies
• nasal washes
• structured aftercare

Operative therapy

If medication is not enough, a minimally invasive endoscopic surgery be useful:

• functional
• gentle on the tissue
• individually adapted

The aim is not “to operate a lot”, but:
free ventilation, good drainage and long-term absence of symptoms.

Why specialized clarification is crucial

Nasal congestion is not a uniform clinical picture. Successful treatment requires:

• Experience in modern rhinology
• precise diagnostics
• Understanding functional relationships
• an individually tailored therapy strategy

We would be happy to advise you personally in our ENT private practice in Vienna.

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