Nasal Congestion

Nasal congestion causes near-daily irritation and disruptions for nearly 25% of Americans — but today’s new treatments are more effective than ever. At Michigan Avenue ENT, elite ENT specialist Julian Dixon, MD, is a double board-certified physician with extensive experience treating nasal congestion using the latest state-of-the-art technology. Book your appointment online or call their The Loop, Chicago, Illinois, office now.

What is nasal congestion?

Nasal congestion is irritation and inflammation in the lining of your nose. It causes extra mucus production, which clogs your nose and makes it hard to breathe freely. 

Nasal congestion often occurs alongside a runny nose and postnasal drip (mucus flowing down the back of your throat). 

Many people with chronic nasal congestion also snore. 

What causes nasal congestion?

Nasal congestion can happen for numerous reasons, including:

• Allergies
• Colds
• Flu
• Chronic sinus infections
• Acute sinus infections
• Deviated septum
• Nasal polyps
• Cold and dry air
• Hormone fluctuations
• Excessive use of nasal sprays
• Medications to treat conditions like hypertension, erectile dysfunction, and seizures
• Spicy foods
• Tobacco smoke
• Thyroid disorders

Sometimes, a few factors may combine to cause nasal congestion. A diagnostic evaluation at Michigan Avenue ENT is the best way to find out what causes your nasal congestion and get relief. 

How is nasal congestion diagnosed?

At Michigan Avenue ENT, Dr. Dixon uses a variety of methods to evaluate and find the cause of your nasal congestion. 

Along with a symptom review and exam, he often uses state-of-the-art wireless endoscopy to view the inside of your nose and detect structural and functional issues. Using this technology, he can share information with you in real time. 

If Dr. Dixon suspects an infection, he may perform a throat culture by swiping the back of your throat with a cotton swab. And, if he suspects an obstruction or other issue deeper in your nose, he may request imaging like a computed tomography (CT) scan. 

Dr. Dixon compiles all the information he gathered during your exam to diagnose the problem behind your nasal congestion.

What are the treatments for nasal congestion?

Nasal congestion treatments are as varied as its causes. Solutions may include options such as:

• Allergy shots
• Oral medication
• Nasal rinses 
• Nasal sprays
• Lifestyle changes

But, in many cases, nasal congestion stems from more complex structural problems in the nose, like deviated septum or nasal polyps. Those problems respond best to treatments that correct them at their roots rather than just treating the symptoms of nasal congestion. 

At Michigan Avenue ENT, Dr. Dixon corrects structural problems and opens obstructed sinuses using minimally invasive strategies, often with no incisions. Procedures can take as little as 45 minutes, and you can go home shortly afterward.

If you have frustrating chronic nasal congestion, find out how Michigan Avenue ENT can help. Call the office or click online scheduling now.