Definition

By Mayo Clinic Staff

Nasal congestion or "stuffy nose" occurs when nasal and adjacent tissues and blood vessels become swollen with excess fluid, causing a "stuffy" plugged feeling. Nasal congestion may or may not include a nasal discharge or "runny nose."

Nasal congestion usually is just an annoyance for older children and adults. But nasal congestion can be serious for children whose sleep is disturbed by their nasal congestion, or for infants, who might have a hard time feeding as a result.

Feb. 16, 2019

See also

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  40. Headaches 101: Know your type
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  44. Honey: An effective cough remedy?
  45. How well do you wash your hands?
  46. Humidifier care 101
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  50. Infographic: Lung Transplant for Cystic Fibrosis
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  57. Neti pot: Can it clear your nose?
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