Why is my nose always stuffy? Common causes and solutions

If you've ever asked yourself, 'Why is my nose always stuffy?' you may be one of millions of people who suffer from chronic nasal congestion.

If you've been having trouble breathing through your nose, even though you're not ill, you've probably wondered, "Why is my nose always stuffy?" Rest assured you're not alone.

Most people experience a stuffy nose from time to time, especially when they're sick. But for some, the stuffy feeling never really goes away. In fact, chronic nasal congestion affects nearly one in four Americans. Not only that, but 85% of those living with the condition say it negatively impacts their daily activities.

What are the most common causes of a stuffy nose?

A nose that's constantly stuffy can affect how you speak, how you sleep and how well you can taste your food. Over time, it can take a toll on your quality of life, potentially leaving you feeling frustrated and tired. Here are the most common reasons you may have a stuffy nose.

Allergies

An allergy is an immune response to a foreign substance, called an allergen. More than 100 million people in the United States have some type of allergy, such as seasonal or food allergies. Seasonal spring allergies usually begin in February and last through early summer. Meanwhile, fall allergies may begin as early as August and last through November.

The most common food allergies, known as the "big nine," include:

• Eggs
• Fish
• Milk
• Peanuts
• Sesame
• Shellfish
• Soybeans
• Tree nuts
• Wheat

Sinus infections

Sinus infections are another common cause of stuffy nose. A sinus infection occurs when fluid builds up within the air-filled pockets in the face (sinuses). The body's immune response can cause the sinus linings to swell, stopping mucus from draining properly. Viral infections — such as the common cold and the flu — can also cause inflammation and mucus buildup in the nose.

Structural congestion

There may also be structural causes for chronic congestion, such as a deviated septum or enlarged turbinates. A deviated septum is a condition that occurs when cartilage and the bone that separates your nostrils are off-center. Some people are born with a deviated septum but it can also be caused by injury. Turbinates are structures in the nose that cleanse and humidify the air we breathe. They may become enlarged due to allergies, hormonal changes or medication.

Environmental and health factors

Aside from the causes outlined above, you might experience a stuffy nose simply because of your physical location or current health. Other common causes of nasal congestion include:

• Cold or dry air
• Irritants such as air pollution and smoke
• Certain medications
• Hormonal changes, such as during pregnancy
• Nasal polyps
• Sleep apnea

How to treat a stuffy nose

Treatment for a stuffy nose can vary depending on the cause. For allergic reactions, identifying and avoiding allergy triggers can help reduce symptoms. If you take medication for seasonal allergies, start your regimen two to four weeks before the season begins. While fast-acting medication such as decongestants work within a few minutes, others may need more time to kick in.

Other ways to relieve a stuffy nose include:

• Applying a warm compress to the nose or forehead
• Drinking lots of water or juice to thin mucus
• Avoiding alcohol or caffeine (they can both cause dehydration)
• Eating spicy foods to open up the nasal passages
• Inhaling steam, either using a bowl of hot water or by taking a warm shower
• Irrigating your sinuses with a neti pot
• Sleeping with your head elevated to help drain the sinuses
• Using a humidifier to moisten the air

When to seek medical care for chronic stuffy nose

A stuffy nose isn't usually cause for concern. However, there are a few times when you should seek a professional opinion. Talk to your doctor or seek medical care if you have any of the following:

• A high fever
• Facial pain
• Green or yellow nasal discharge, or mucus with blood in it
• Severe headache
• Symptoms that last longer than 10 days

These symptoms can indicate a bacterial infection and your doctor may need to prescribe antibiotics. They can help you answer the question, "Why is my nose always stuffy?"

From allergies to infections to structural issues, chronic nasal congestion can have a wide range of potential causes. However, once you identify the cause of your stuffy nose, there are steps you can take to treat it. Over-the-counter medication and lifestyle changes can help you breathe easier, but it is important to talk to your doctor if your symptoms don't get better.