What Causes Nasal Congestion?
Nasal congestion, often referred to as a stuffy nose, occurs when the tissues lining your nasal passages become inflamed and swollen. This inflammation can narrow the airways, making it difficult to breathe through your nose. Various factors can trigger nasal congestion.
The most common culprits are infections, such as the common cold or flu. These viruses irritate and inflame the nasal tissues, leading to congestion along with other symptoms like cough, sore throat, and runny nose. Another frequent cause is allergies. When exposed to allergens like pollen, dust mites, or pet dander, your immune system overreacts, causing inflammation and congestion.
