Nasal congestion

Description

The inside of the nose can feel stuffed with fluid and mucus. Infections, allergies or irritants, such as tobacco smoke, can cause the stuffiness.

Self-care

Drink plenty of fluids. Use a nasal rinse. Stay away from allergy causes. Take an allergy medicine you can get without a prescription if the cause is likely an allergy.

When to seek immediate medical care

See a health care provider right away for:

• Problems breathing.
• A nose that keeps running or has bloody mucus after a head injury.

When to make a doctor's appointment

Make an appointment to see a health care provider for:

• Symptoms that last longer than 10 days.
• High fever.
• Mucus that's green or yellow.
• Sinus pain.