If nasal congestion prevents you from getting a decent night’s sleep or breathing effectively, do not hesitate to contact a doctor. With early diagnosis and care, nasal congestion frequently responds to mild, nonsurgical care procedures. At the convenient office locations in East Hampton, New York, and Midtown East, Manhattan, Richard L. Nass, M.D., F.A.C.S., and his staff can efficiently address nasal congestion. They employ advanced treatment options, such as the VIVAER® technique, to obtain the best outcomes possible. Find out more about Midtown East nasal congestion care by calling the office or booking an appointment online right away.
What is the Meaning of Nasal Congestion?
Nasal congestion, sometimes known as a stuffy nose, is a frequent but irritating condition caused by an inherent health issue such as sinusitis or an upper respiratory infection. Numerous cases of nasal congestion may be treated with rest and over-the-counter medication, but if your symptoms last longer than a few days, they may suggest a more severe problem.
How Can You Determine if You Have Nasal Congestion?
Nasal congestion can cause the following symptoms:
- A stuffy or runny nose
- Sinus discomfort
- More drainage
- Mucus accumulation
- Breathing problems
If you have nasal congestion, you may also notice inflamed nasal tissue.
When Should You Visit an Otolaryngologist Concerning Nasal Congestion?
Nasal congestion is a prevalent condition that affects practically everybody at some point in their lives. Nonetheless, particular signs point to a possibly serious underlying medical condition. Schedule a meeting with Dr. Nass and his colleagues if your nasal congestion:
- Persists for more than ten days
- Is coupled with soreness or a green nasal discharge
- Is followed by fever
- Happens alongside bloody nasal discharge
You must also obtain expert care if you have been identified with a compromised immune system, asthma, or emphysema.
How Can You Tell if You Have Nasal Congestion?
When diagnosing nasal congestion, Dr. Nass looks through your health records and inquiries concerning your symptoms. He might ask questions such as when your symptoms began, how severe they are, and if any activities, such as being outside, exacerbate them.
Dr. Nass then does a thorough physical examination. He shines a strong light in your ears and nose, checks your throat, and asks you to complete a questionnaire. If these tests do not reveal enough about your condition, he may arrange an MRI to check your sinuses in greater detail.
What Are the Care Options for Nasal Congestion?
Care for nasal congestion varies according to the underlying reason for your condition and the seriousness of your symptoms. Typically, Dr. Nass suggests conservative, at-home procedures such as utilizing a humidifier, saline sprays, as well as keeping your head up to enhance mucus flow through your nasal passages.
If your symptoms persist, Dr. Nass might propose turbinoplasty, septoplasty, and/or nasal resculpting surgeries. The VIVAER technique is an outpatient operation that reshapes your nasal valves using radiofrequency energy. After having the VIVAER procedure, numerous patients notice an immediate improvement in their nasal breathing.
If nasal congestion has constantly been troubling you and does not improve with over-the-counter or home remedies, consult an otolaryngologist to establish the cause and best care plan. To schedule a consultation, call the office of Richard L. Nass, M.D., to talk to a team member or book online.