Nasal congestion can be caused by anything that irritates or inflames the nasal tissues. Infections — such as colds, flu or sinusitis — allergies and various irritants, such as tobacco smoke, may all cause a runny nose. Some people have a chronically runny nose for no apparent reason — a condition called nonallergic rhinitis or vasomotor rhinitis (VMR).

Less commonly, nasal congestion can be caused by polyps or a tumor.

Potential causes of nasal congestion include:

1. Acute sinusitis (sinus infection)
2. Allergies
3. Chronic sinusitis
4. Churg-Strauss syndrome
5. Common cold
6. Decongestant nasal spray overuse
7. Deviated septum
8. Drug addiction (substance use disorder)
9. Dry air
10. Enlarged adenoids
11. Foreign body in the nose
12. Granulomatosis with polyangiitis (Wegener's)
13. Hormonal changes
14. Influenza (flu)
15. Medications, such as high blood pressure drugs
16. Nasal polyps
17. Nonallergic rhinitis (chronic congestion or sneezing not related to allergies)
18. Occupational asthma
19. Pregnancy
20. Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)
21. Stress
22. Thyroid disorders
23. Tobacco smoke

• Definition
• When to see a doctor

Jan. 11, 2018