Causes

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:

• Acute sinusitis (nasal and sinus infection)
• Alcohol
• Allergies
• Chronic sinusitis
• Churg-Strauss syndrome
• Common cold
• Decongestant nasal spray overuse
• Deviated septum
• Dry air
• Enlarged adenoids
• Food, especially spicy dishes
• Foreign body in the nose
• Granulomatosis with polyangiitis (Wegener's granulomatosis)
• Hormonal changes
• Influenza (flu)
• Medications, such as those used to treat high blood pressure, erectile dysfunction, depression, seizures and other conditions
• Nasal polyps
• Nonallergic rhinitis (chronic congestion or sneezing not related to allergies)
• Occupational asthma
• Pregnancy
• Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)
• Sleep apnea
• Stress
• Thyroid disorders
• Tobacco smoke