An Overview of Nasal Congestion Due to a Cold

Nasal congestion is caused by irritation in the sinuses, often due to a virus such as one that causes the common cold. The buildup of mucus in your sinuses creates pressure, which can lead to other symptoms like headaches and runny nose.

Fortunately, there are things you can do at home to relieve some of the unpleasantness associated with the common cold and the congestion that goes along with it.

This article discusses congestion as a symptom of a cold, the reason why it occurs, and some of the treatments that can bring relief.

What Causes Nasal Congestion?

Nasal congestion is caused by irritated tissues inside your sinuses. When you catch a cold, the virus gets inside your sinuses—a series of cavities and passages behind your nose, eyes, and cheeks—and irritates them. That signals your immune system to start making mucus (snot) to wash the virus out and moisten the irritated tissues.

It's not as easy to rid the body of a virus this way as it is, say, dust particles, so the mucus continues to build up. That causes your sinuses to fill up and put pressure on everything around them.

While all of this is occurring, your immune system is increasing blood flow to the area and sending in all kinds of specialized cells to kill the invading virus. That leads to inflammation, which creates additional pressure.

Nasal Congestion and Related Symptoms

Congestion is a symptom and not an illness itself, but it can lead to:

• Runny nose
• Stuffiness
• Sinus pressure
• Sinus headaches and possibly migraines
• Reduced sense of smell and taste
• Post-nasal drip, which can lead to a cough and/or sore throat
• Difficulty talking, eating, or sleeping because of breathing limitations

When you have a cold, congestion can last anywhere from a few days to a week or longer.

Congestion is also caused by conditions like allergies, flu, and COVID-19. Sometimes it can be hard to tell the difference between the common cold and these other conditions, but in general, congestion that occurs only at certain times of the year or lasts for weeks or months is probably due to an allergy or sensitivity to something like pollen, dust, or pet dander.

Nasal Congestion Home Remedies and Treatments

Congestion as a cold symptom is typically short-lived and will go away on its own once your immune system clears the virus. In some cases, congestion may linger for up to two weeks.

No medication can "cure" nasal congestion or a cold, but over-the-counter (OTC) products can provide temporary relief.

• Decongestants and sometimes antihistamines can reduce the swelling and relieve congestion.
• Pain relievers, especially NSAIDs like ibuprofen and naproxen, may help with discomfort and inflammation.
• Nasal saline spray or sinus rinses can help wash the excess mucus out of your nasal passages and sinuses.

Using a humidifier, inhaling steam, and drinking plenty of fluids may help as well.

Ask your healthcare provider what treatments are best for you, especially if you have chronic health conditions or you're pregnant or breastfeeding.

When to See a Healthcare Provider

When you have a cold, congestion can usually be managed successfully at home. Sometimes, however, congestion can be a sign of a more serious infection. Contact your healthcare provider if:

• Your symptoms have lasted longer than 3 weeks.
• You also have swelling around your face and eyes.
• You have a cough that lasts longer than 10 days. 
• You are coughing up mucus that is yellowish-green or gray.
• You have blurry vision.
• You have congestion along with throat pain and yellow or white spots in the throat or on the tonsils.
• You are having trouble breathing.

Summary

When you have a cold, the virus causes irritation in your sinuses. This is what prompts your body to produce excess mucus, leading to congestion. Congestion may also cause additional symptoms like headache and post-nasal drip.

Most congestion can be managed at home with self-care strategies like steam, saline spray, and taking over-the-counter medications. Call your healthcare provider if your symptoms last longer than a few weeks, you're coughing up yellowish-green or gray mucus, have shortness of breath, or have other symptoms that may indicate a more serious illness.