Nasal congestion can be caused by anything that irritates or inflames the nasal tissues. Infections — such as colds, flu or sinusitis — and allergies are frequent causes of nasal congestion and runny nose. Sometimes a congested and runny nose can be caused by irritants such as tobacco smoke and car exhaust. This condition is called nonallergic rhinitis or vasomotor rhinitis.

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

Potential causes of nasal congestion include:

1. Acute sinusitis (nasal and sinus infection)
2. Alcohol
3. Allergies
4. Chronic sinusitis
5. Churg-Strauss syndrome
6. Common cold
7. Decongestant nasal spray overuse
8. Deviated septum
9. Dry air
10. Enlarged adenoids
11. Food, especially spicy dishes
12. Foreign body in the nose
13. Granulomatosis with polyangiitis (Wegener's granulomatosis)
14. Hormonal changes
15. Influenza (flu)
16. Medications, such as those used to treat high blood pressure, erectile dysfunction, depression, seizures and other conditions
17. Nasal polyps
18. Nonallergic rhinitis (chronic congestion or sneezing not related to allergies)
19. Occupational asthma
20. Pregnancy
21. Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)
22. Sleep apnea
23. Stress
24. Thyroid disorders
25. Tobacco smoke

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Feb. 27, 2021