Use the Symptom Analysis option to explore the possible explanations for nasal congestion, occurring alone or in combination with other problems. Considerations A stuffy nose is usually caused by a virus and typically resolves spontaneously within a week. Nasal congestion has many causes and can range from a mild annoyance to a life-threatening condition. Nasal congestion in an infant in the first few months of life can interfere with nursing and cause life-threatening breathing difficulty . Nasal congestion in older children and adolescents is often just an annoyance but can cause other difficulties.
Nasal congestion can interfere with the ears, hearing, and speech development.
The problem resolves completely with removal of the adenoids and tonsils. The medical history will be obtained and a physical examination performed. The physical examination may include an examination of the upper respiratory system, ears, nose, and throat. Stronger, prescription medications may be advised. For severe hay fever cases, desensitization injections for known allergens may be administered.