Patient's question:
Nasal congestion for 10 years, the cause or etiology is unclearDoctor's answer:
Hello, the factors or causes of nasal congestion are multifaceted. If you experience nasal blockage in daily life, it is essential to first identify the factors or causes before taking action.1. Changes in nasal structure can cause nasal congestion, such as congenital development or post-traumatic injuries leading to a deviated septum, which results in nasal blockage. This condition is often not effectively treated with medication and may require a septoplasty to correct the deviated septum, restoring it to normal. The procedure is performed inside the nasal cavity, leaving no scars externally.
2. Edema or hypertrophy of the soft tissues on the lateral side of the nasal cavity can also cause nasal congestion, which is clinically known as nasal turbinates edema or hypertrophic rhinitis. This condition is often associated with the initial stages of a cold or chronic rhinitis. Early use of 1% ephedrine nasal drops can be highly effective, but continuous use should not exceed one week, and it is best to do so under the guidance of a physician.
3. Some cases of nasal congestion are caused by allergic reactions, such as allergic rhinitis. This condition may be perennial (occurring year-round), seasonal (occurring at specific times of the year), or triggered by new furniture, paint from renovated homes, or spring pollen, among other allergens. Treatment for these patients can involve antiallergic and allergy-relieving medications. For those with severe symptoms or long-term conditions, minimally invasive treatment may be considered to block sensitive nerves and reduce excitability, achieving the therapeutic goal while avoiding the side effects of frequent medication use.
4. Additionally, when young children experience nasal congestion, it is important to consider whether they may have inserted an object into their nasal cavity during play and forgotten about it. Children may have difficulty expressing themselves clearly, so parents need to be vigilant. If a child shows signs of nasal congestion, a detailed nasal endoscopy examination can reveal the cause. If an object is found, its removal will naturally alleviate the congestion.
5. Another possibility is that nasal congestion is caused by a growth in the nasal cavity or sinuses. There are various types of growths, with common ones being nasal polyps, which are benign tumors resembling "lychee meat." Less common are nasal papillomas, and even rarer are malignant nasal and sinus tumors.