Frequently Stuffy Nose, ENT Doctor Reveals the Cause

Dream - A blocked nose can occur in both nostrils or in one nostril. A blocked nose on one side is caused by many things, such as sleeping on one side, allergies, or foreign objects entering the nose.

Some people often experience a blocked nose on only one side, either right or left. Maybe you also experience it. Curious about the reason? 

According to Dr. Anthony Cornetta, an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist at NYU Langone, the body naturally goes through something called the "nasal cycle."

This cycle describes how the nose becomes blocked alternately between the two nostrils. A blocked nose occurs when the nasal conchae, which are small structures in the nose, are cleaning and moisturizing the air you inhale. 

"The inferior concha causes limited airflow, causing the nose to become blocked. The concha can also swell on one side more than the other due to allergies," said Dr. Cornetta. 

There are several conditions that can cause a constantly stuffy or blocked nose on one side. Here are 4 possible triggers.

Sleeping on One Side

Sleeping on one side is a comfortable position for some people. However, if you experience a blocked nose, it is best to avoid it.

"Sleeping on one side can definitely cause a blocked nose on only one side for a long time. You can sleep with a slightly elevated head pillow," said Dr. Cornetta.

Deviated Septum

The nasal septum is the middle part of the nose that separates the right and left nasal cavities. Dr. Cornetta explains that a deviated septum is characterized by a bent or defective partition.

When the nasal septum is shifted to one side, it will cause different sizes of the nasal passages. Breathing through the smaller side will be much more difficult.

"This is actually very common, but rarely does anyone have a straight septum. As for a deviated septum, there is no need to worry because it will develop along with the growth of our facial bones," said Dr. Cornetta.

Correcting a deviated septum requires surgery. It requires a special examination by an ENT doctor and a surgeon.

Nasal Polyps

Nasal polyps can grow inside the nose and block the airways. They are usually accompanied by other symptoms such as pressure on the forehead or loss of taste and smell.

If you have these symptoms, immediately consult a doctor for a detailed examination and accurate diagnosis. Usually, after being diagnosed with nasal polyps, a person will be given nasal sprays, oral medications, or steroid injections, and in some cases, surgery.

Alcohol Consumption

There are two physiological reasons why the nose becomes blocked after consuming alcohol. According to GoHealth Urgent Care, alcoholic beverages usually contain histamine, a compound that causes allergies such as a blocked nose and sneezing.

Another reason is that some people have lower enzyme levels, making it difficult to break down alcohol. When the compounds in alcohol cannot be broken down quickly and accurately, it will cause an allergic reaction.

Ways to Relieve a Blocked Nose

You can use a humidifier and saline solution to clean mucus and try changing your sleeping position to help relieve a blocked nose.

As in the case of nasal polyps, a doctor can help assess the condition and suggest appropriate treatments, whether it's prescribed medication, steroid injections, or surgery. 

Report by Devi Tri Aprilianza /Source: Pop Sugar