Types of Congestion

• There are three general ways that nasal congestion presents itself. You may have a runny nose, a stuffy nose or blocked nose. The sufferer may be able to breath but have to deal with a constant mucus discharge Stuffy nose is partial blockage without the runny mucus. The patient can breathe through the nose but only with difficulty. A blocked nose allows no passage of air through the nasal passages.
  
  

Cold-like Symptoms

• If nasal congestion is accompanied by cold-like symptoms such as sore throat, chest congestion or coughing, the symptoms suggest treating for the underlying cold to relieve the nasal symptoms.
  
  

Flu-like Symptoms

• If also experiencing generalized body aching, fever or nausea, suspect that nasal symptoms are caused by flu and treat accordingly.
  
  

Allergy-related Symptoms

• Nasal congestion accompanied by itchy watery eyes, uncontrolled sneezing, rashes, nervousness and an urge to scratch may indicate an allergy attack. Allergies are treated differently than colds or flu. Symptoms caused by allergies may respond negatively to cold and flu medications. Congestion may also be caused by irritants like tobacco smoke, chemical fumes or accidental inhalation of toxic substances.
  
  

Physical Blockages

• Especially in children, nasal congestion symptoms may be cause by physical objects that have been shoved up the nose. If there are no other cold, flu or allergy symptoms, check for physical obstructions. For objects lodged far up the nose, consult a doctor. Fishing for an object can force the object farther into the head. The nose can also be physically blocked by injuries to the nose itself and the resultant swelling. Treat the swelling with anti-inflammatory medications and ice or cold packs.